Complete recovery from paraparesis in spinal cord compression due to extramedullary haemopoiesis in beta-thalassaemia by emergency radiation therapy

Abstract

Extramedullary haemopoiesis (EMH) is a complication commonly associated with beta-thalassaemia intermedia; it is frequently asymptomatic but can sometimes lead to symptomatic tumour-like masses. No guidelines or common consensus are available in literature regarding the different treatment strategies and only single cases have been reported. We describe a case of spinal cord compression due to intrathoracic EMH masses treated with combined radiotherapy and hydroxyurea.

Keywords: extramedullary haemopoiesis; radiotherapy; spinal cord compression; thalassaemia.