Anterior Spinal Artery Syndrome in a Patient With Multilevel Cervical Disc Disease: A Case Report

Anterior spinal artery syndrome (ASAS) is a rare form of spinal cord infarction, making its incidence and prevalence difficult to determine. We present the case of a 60-year-old woman with multiple vascular risk factors who experienced a sudden onset of severe lower limb weakness, raising immediate concerns about spinal cord ischemia. Diagnostic evaluations confirmed ASAS, although the exact cause and mechanism of her spinal cord infarction remained undetermined. The potential presence of significant cervical disc disease suggests fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE) as a possible underlying mechanism, despite the lack of direct evidence. This case underscores the importance of clinical awareness and timely intervention in patients with similar symptoms and vascular risk factors. Early recognition, cause identification, and appropriate management are crucial for improving outcomes in spinal cord ischemia, guiding specific treatment strategies, and potentially preventing recurrence.