Thoracic spinal cord compression by ligamentum flavum ossifications - 01/01/02
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Résumé |
Thoracic Spinal Cord Compression by Ligamentum Flavum Ossifications. Ossification of the ligamentum flavum is common in Japan but rare in Western countries. Myelopathy of variable severity is a possible complication. Extension of the lesions over several levels at the thoracic spine is exceedingly rare. We report a new case in a 50-year-old man who had slowly progressive spinal cord compression with a sensory level at the navel. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the thoracic spine showed calcium-density masses that were in contact with the neural arches and bulged into the spinal canal at T5/T6, T7/T8, T9/T10, and T10/T11. Laboratory test findings were unremarkable. Surgical decompression by laminectomy and foraminotomy was followed by a favorable outcome. Histology showed extensive areas of bone metaplasia associated with calcific deposits. The diagnosis, treatment, and possible etiologies of this rare condition are discussed based on a literature review.
Mots clés : ligamentum flavum ; magnetic resonance imaging ; ossification ; spinal cord compression ; thoracic spine.
Plan
Vol 69 - N° 3
P. 319-323 - mai 2002 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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