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Angioleiomyoma involving the sciatic nerve--CT demonstration. Case report
W W Scott1, R H Hruban, J N Campbell
1Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21287-8722.
Clinical Imaging
|October 1, 1993
Summary
A sciatic nerve tumor, angioleiomyoma, caused 11 years of pain. Advanced imaging revealed the pelvic tumor compressing the sciatic nerve, leading to diagnosis and potential treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Sciatic nerve pain and dysfunction can significantly impact quality of life.
- Benign tumors can cause nerve impingement, leading to chronic symptoms.
- Angioleiomyomas are rare tumors typically found in the skin and subcutaneous tissue.
Observation:
- A patient presented with an 11-year history of sciatic nerve pain and dysfunction.
- Previous treatments were ineffective, and pain management involved narcotic analgesics.
- Sciatic nerve block suggested mechanical compression, prompting further imaging.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) of the pelvis revealed an angioleiomyoma adjacent to the sciatic nerve near the ischial tuberosity.
- This pelvic tumor was identified as the cause of chronic sciatic nerve compression.
- This represents the second reported case of nerve dysfunction due to angioleiomyoma impingement.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare pelvic tumors in the differential diagnosis of chronic sciatic nerve pain.
- Advanced imaging techniques, like extended CT scans, are crucial for identifying the source of nerve compression.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention for sciatic nerve impingement by angioleiomyomas can potentially alleviate chronic pain and improve function.