Superficial Siderosis of the Central Nervous System Originating from the Thoracic Spine: A Case Report

Abstract

Superficial siderosis of the central nervous system(SSCNS) is a rare disease characterized by hemosiderin deposition on the surface of the central nervous system. We report a case of SSCNS originating from the thoracic spine, presenting with neurological deficits including, sensorineuronal hearing loss, ataxia, and corticospinal and dorsal column tract signs. The patient underwent dural repair with an artificial dural patch. Clinical findings were elicited by neurological examination, imaging studies, and intraoperative findings, and these were addressed through literature review.

Keywords: Ataxia; Hemosiderin; Siderosis.

Fig. 1. Magnetic resonance scan of the cervical spine. Marginal hypointensity along the spinal cord was seen in the T2-weighted image (arrowheads).

Fig. 2. Magnetic resonance scan of brain. Findings of hemosiderin deposition were seen around the crest of the cerebellar folia (arrowhead).

Fig. 3. Computed tomography (CT) myelogram of the thoracic level. Preoperative axial CT myelogram showing fluid collection in the spinal canal (arrowheads).

Fig. 4. Operative microscopic view. (A) The dural hole at the ventral portion of the spinal cord (arrowhead), (B) A dural patch was anchored to the remaining dural defect (arrowhead).