[Eosinophilic granuloma of the cervical spine with atypical neurological, cerebrospinal fluid and radiological manifestations]

Abstract

A case of eosinophilic granuloma of the cervical spine in a ten year-old white boy is reported. The patient complained of posterior cervical pain at the level of C5-C6 and right hemiparesis that progressed to mixed tetraparesis (lower motor neuron in upper limbs and upper motor neuron in lower limbs). Examination of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disclosed an inflammatory reaction; radiologic studies of the cervical spine showed an irregular aspect with demineralization at the base of spinous process of C6. The patient was treatet intermitently with corticosteriods (prednisone); there was an improvement of neurologic symptoms and the examination of the CSF was normal within a few days, each time he took the drug. Neurologic symptons and abnormalities of the CSF recurred after discontinuation of corticotherapy. Examination of a fragment of the spinous process and neighboring tissues of C6, taken by biopsy, disclosed eosinophilic granuloma. Radiotherapy was then indicated, plus corticosteroids. There was remission of all neurologic symptoms and signs. The unusual features of the case are discussed in relation to others reported in the literature.