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Related Experiment Videos

Sciatica caused by a dilated epidural vein: MR findings

P Demaerel1, C Petré, G Wilms

  • 1Department of Radiology, Catholic University of Leuven, University Hospitals, Herestraat 49, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium.

European Radiology
|February 5, 1999
PubMed
Summary

A dilated epidural vein causing sciatica was identified using MR imaging in a woman with low back pain. This rare condition, a venous varix, was successfully diagnosed via magnetic resonance imaging.

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Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Neurosurgery
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Sciatica and low back pain are common presenting symptoms in neurological and orthopedic practice.
  • Epidural venous abnormalities are rare causes of spinal nerve root compression.

Observation:

  • A 41-year-old woman presented with acute onset low back pain and sciatica.
  • Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was performed to investigate the cause of her symptoms.

Findings:

  • MR imaging revealed a dilated epidural vein, consistent with a venous varix, compressing the L5 nerve root.
  • Surgical exploration confirmed the presence of the dilated epidural vein as the cause of nerve root compression.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the utility of MR imaging in diagnosing uncommon causes of sciatica.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Recognition of this MR imaging appearance can aid in the prompt diagnosis and management of symptomatic epidural venous varices.
  • This represents the first reported case of a dilated epidural vein causing sciatica diagnosed with MR imaging.