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Brown-Sequard syndrome due to isolated blunt trauma
1Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles, USA.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|December 16, 1998
Summary
Blunt trauma can cause Brown-Sequard syndrome even without bone or ligament damage. Prompt steroid treatment and MRI revealed a cervical cord contusion, leading to significant functional recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Trauma Surgery
- Spinal Cord Injury
Background:
- Brown-Sequard syndrome is typically associated with penetrating trauma or spinal fractures.
- Blunt trauma without fracture or ligamentous injury is an exceedingly rare cause.
Observation:
- A patient presented with classic Brown-Sequard syndrome symptoms after a direct blow to the cervical spine.
- Neurologic findings included unilateral hemiparesis and contralateral sensory deficits.
Findings:
- Cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a unilateral cord contusion.
- No associated fractures or ligamentous injuries were identified.
- High-dose steroid administration was initiated.
Implications:
- This case highlights that blunt cervical trauma can cause Brown-Sequard syndrome without structural bone or ligament damage.
- Early recognition and management, including steroids, may improve functional outcomes.
- Further research into non-fracture spinal cord injuries is warranted.