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Extradural lumbar cryptococcosis. Case report
Journal of Neurosurgery
|December 1, 1978
Abstract:
An 85-year-old woman presented with back and leg pain. Plain films showed destruction of the posterior elements of L-5 and myelography demonstrated a large extradural mass at that level. Exploration revealed a huge gelatinous extradural mass with invasion of the paraspinal muscles. Fungal stains showed that the mass consisted of innumerable Cryptococci. There was no evidence of cryptococcal involvement elsewhere.
Insights
A spinal epidural mass in an 85-year-old woman was caused by Cryptococcus. This rare fungal infection presented as back and leg pain due to L-5 posterior element destruction.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
Background:
- Spinal epidural masses can present with significant neurological deficits.
- Fungal infections of the spine are uncommon but can be devastating.
Observation:
- An 85-year-old female patient experienced severe back and leg pain.
- Radiological imaging revealed L-5 posterior element destruction and a large extradural mass.
Findings:
- Surgical exploration identified a gelatinous extradural mass invading paraspinal muscles.
- Fungal stains confirmed the mass was composed of numerous Cryptococci.
- No other sites of cryptococcal infection were identified.
Implications:
- This case highlights Cryptococcus as a rare cause of spinal epidural masses.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing spinal fungal infections.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of spinal cryptococcosis is warranted.