BACKGROUND: Spontaneously occurring epidural hematomas for which no etiology is identified are rare phenomenon. These are often neurosurgical emergencies; therefore, prompt diagnosis and treatment are paramount. Because of the rarity of this condition, we have illustrated in this recent case its presentation, evaluation and management. METHODS: A 63-year-old male presented to our emergency room with right-sided hemiparesis and contralateral hypesthesia, consistent with a C5 Brown-Séquard syndrome. An initial evaluation for cerebral infarction was unremarkable, including a negative brain magnetic resonance image. Further imaging revealed a cervical epidural hematoma of unknown etiology. RESULTS: The patient underwent emergent laminectomy for decompression and evacuation of the hematoma within 24 hours of his presentation to the emergency room. The patient's symptoms improved remarkably after surgery and a 4-month follow-up imaging evaluation revealed no recurrence of his hematoma. CONCLUSION: This report highlights the various presentations, evaluation, and management options for this rare diagnosis. It emphasizes the necessity of prompt diagnosis for possible emergent intervention.
BACKGROUND: Spontaneously occurring epidural hematomas for which no etiology is identified are rare phenomenon. These are often neurosurgical emergencies; therefore, prompt diagnosis and treatment are paramount. Because of the rarity of this condition, we have illustrated in this recent case its presentation, evaluation and management. METHODS: A 63-year-old male presented to our emergency room with right-sided hemiparesis and contralateral hypesthesia, consistent with a C5 Brown-Séquard syndrome. An initial evaluation for cerebral infarction was unremarkable, including a negative brain magnetic resonance image. Further imaging revealed a cervical epidural hematoma of unknown etiology. RESULTS: The patient underwent emergent laminectomy for decompression and evacuation of the hematoma within 24 hours of his presentation to the emergency room. The patient's symptoms improved remarkably after surgery and a 4-month follow-up imaging evaluation revealed no recurrence of his hematoma. CONCLUSION: This report highlights the various presentations, evaluation, and management options for this rare diagnosis. It emphasizes the necessity of prompt diagnosis for possible emergent intervention.
Authors: Nikolaos T Roidis; Lazaros A Poultsides; Nikolaos E Gougoulias; Paraskevi D Liakou; Theofilos S Karachalios; Konstantinos N Malizos Journal: Cases J Date: 2009-05-26