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Spinal angiolipoma mimicking extradural lipomatosis
N A O'Donovan1, K Naik, W J Maloney
1Department of Radiology, Victoria General Hospital, Halifax, NS.
Summary
This case report highlights a rare extradural spinal angiolipoma. Misinterpretation of MRI findings can delay diagnosis of this benign spinal tumor.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Spinal angiolipomas are rare, benign tumors, with over 90% occurring extradurally.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management and preventing neurological deficits.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old man presented with symptoms later attributed to an extradural spinal angiolipoma.
- Initial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed extensive extradural adipose tissue in the thoracic spine.
- The MRI findings were initially underestimated, leading to a delay in diagnosis.
Findings:
- Conventional MRI sequences (T1 and T2 weighted) showed excessive extradural fat, mimicking less significant findings.
- Myelography was essential in demonstrating the extradural compression of the thecal sac.
- Surgical confirmation identified the lesion as a spinal angiolipoma.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for misinterpretation of MRI in spinal angiolipoma.
- Awareness of subtle MRI features is critical for accurate diagnosis.
- Implementing specific imaging strategies can help avoid diagnostic pitfalls for spinal tumors.