Spontaneous chronic epidural hematoma in the lumbar spine associated with Warfarin intake: a case report.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematomas are rare. However, in patients on anticoagulant treatment the risk may increase. Symptomatically patients may present with radiculopathy and even progressive neurological deficits.

CASE DESCRIPTION:

We present a case of a warfarin treated patient with left L5 radiculopathy. MRI was evaluated as showing a lumbar disc prolapse or synovial cyst at L4-L5 level. The patient was operated and an organized material was removed and analysed as a hematoma. No prolapsed disc or synovial cyst was found. The patient was neurologically restored following the operation.

DISCUSSION AND EVALUATION:

This case illustrates how spontaneous epidural spinal hematomas can present with symptoms of radiculopathy and radiologically be misinterpreted as a protruding disc or cyst.

CONCLUSION:

Warfarin treated patients may have an increased risk of spontaneous spinal epidural hematomas.

• Authors: Axel Sandvig, Håkan Jonsson
• Journal: SpringerPlus (Springerplus) Vol. 5 Issue 1 Pg. 1832 ( 2016) ISSN: 2193-1801 [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 27818870 (Publication Type: Journal Article)