Lumbar disc protrusion with elevated spinal fluid protein

A case is reported of an extruded disc at L1-2 that had a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein of over 3000 milligrams percent and was partially confused with a tumor of the conus medullaris or the upper filum terminale because of the increased protein and the location of the disc. Transdural removal of the disc was successful and complete neurological recovery ensued.