Spinal subdural hematoma

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine.
• Spinal subdural hematoma is a rare condition, with few reported cases in nonradiological literature.
• Subacute presentation can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

• A patient with ankylosing spondylitis developed a subacute spinal subdural hematoma.
• The rarity of this specific combination (18 reported cases) highlights diagnostic challenges.
• Neurological deficits may manifest insidiously.

Findings:

• The case illustrates a rare complication of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Subacute spinal subdural hematoma requires vigilant diagnostic consideration.
• Timely intervention is key to favorable outcomes.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering rare complications in patients with chronic inflammatory conditions.
• Emphasizes the need for early recognition and management of spinal subdural hematomas.
• Contributes to the limited literature on spinal subdural hematoma in the context of ankylosing spondylitis.