Spinal subdural hematoma: a rare complication of lumbar puncture. Case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Spinal subdural hematoma, though rare, is an established complication of lumbar puncture. A young man with persistent back and neck pain after a traumatic lumbar puncture for the diagnosis of lymphocytic meningitis is presented. A diagnosis of spinal subdural hematoma at T2 to T8 levels without significant spinal cord compression was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Symptoms resolved after one month of analgesics and muscle relaxants.