Subacute paraparesis induced by venous thrombosis of a spinal angiolipoma: a case report

Abstract

Study design: A case report of spinal extradural angiolipoma, a rare tumor that can cause spinal cord compression, is presented with a complete review of the literature related to this disorder.

Objectives: To discuss venous thrombosis involving the angiolipoma in the development of subacute paraparesis.

Summary of background data: This case shows that venous thrombosis of a spinal angiolipoma can precipitate the subacute onset of paraparesis.

Methods: Medical history, physical findings, and the results of imaging and histopathologic studies were analyzed to elucidate the pathogenesis of the patient's subacute onset of paraparesis. A bilateral T3-T7 laminectomy was performed, and although the tumor was extremely hemorrhagic, it was mobilized easily off the compressed dura to achieve resection.

Results: The postoperative course was uneventful. One month after her surgery, the patient's myelopathic symptoms had resolved, and the she was able to return to work.

Conclusion: Because the prognosis after surgical management of these lesions is favorable, the diagnosis of thrombosis involving a spinal angiolipoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of subacute spinal cord compression.