Paraplegia due to epidural T3-T5 hemorrhage of cavernous hemangioma

Epidural cavernous hemangiomas (ECHs) are rare, benign vascular malformations. They account for 4% of all epidural lesions, and 5-12% of all spinal vascular malformations. Acute hemorrhages into extra-hepatic components may cause the acute onset of major neurological deficits.

A 70-year-old male presented with 3 months of progressive paraparesis. The magnetic resonance showed a compressive epidural T3-T5 lesion that was successfully removed. The lesion proved histopathologically to be a benign cavernous angioma.

For patients presenting with progressive myelopathy, early diagnosis and timely surgical resection of benign spinal epidural cavernous angiomas are critical to optimize outcomes.