Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease of the filum terminale.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition disease (CPPDD) is a rare benign inflammatory joint disorder characterized by the presence of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal in the interarticular and periarticular tissue. It has been rarely described with spinal localization.

METHODS:

A 50-year-old woman, affected by CPPDD, presented a progressive weakness of both lower limbs associated with neurogenic claudication. Neuroradiological examinations revealed the presence of two intradural calcified lesions at level L3-L4, with no post-contrast enhancement.

RESULTS:

Surgery was performed and the histopathological exams documented the presence of rod-shaped crystals embedded in a fibrocartilaginous stroma. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient experienced complete symptoms relief with a 5-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION:

Intradural CPPD localization at the filum terminale is an extremely rare occurrence. Total removal should be preferably attempted with a long-term focal control of the disease as we observed in our case.

• Authors: G Cacciotti, F Novegno, D Fiume
• Journal: European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society (Eur Spine J) Vol. 22 Suppl 3 Pg. S501-5 (May 2013) ISSN: 1432-0932 [Electronic] Germany
• PMID: 23455952 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Cauda Equina (pathology, surgery)
• Chondrocalcinosis (pathology, surgery)
• Female
• Humans
• Middle Aged
• Peripheral Nervous System Diseases (pathology, surgery)