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Manjila S, Fana M, Medani K, Kay MD, Manjila R, Bazil TG, Udayasankar U. Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis Causing Lumbar Canal Stenosis: A Pictorial Essay on Radiological Grading and the Role of Bariatric Surgery Versus Laminectomy. Cureus 2022; 14:e26492. [PMID: 35919217 PMCID: PMC9339211 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a rare condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of adipose tissue in the spinal canal that can have a compressive effect on intraspinal neuroanatomical structures, leading to clinical symptoms. Several different conservative and surgical treatment strategies have been proposed but the treatment and outcomes remain controversial. There is a lack of severity-based evidence documenting the success of decompressive laminectomy in SEL and there are only anecdotal reports of clinico-radiological success with weight loss from bariatric surgery. This article demonstrates the resolution of SEL in two patients with bariatric surgery with the help of pre and postoperative MR imaging. The authors also highlight the classic “types” of spinal epidural lipomatosis with a surgically relevant grading system and elucidate the existence of concurrent extraspinal lipomatosis (i.e. mediastinal and intra-abdominal lipomatosis), drawing parallels with the natural history of SEL. The controversial question remains whether a symptomatic SEL patient needs a multilevel laminectomy for spinal decompression or bariatric surgery that can indirectly help the spinal condition. We propose that bariatric intervention could be better frontline management in patients with multifocal/multisystem lipomatosis (i.e., combined spinal and extraspinal) and spinal decompression would be ideal for those SEL patients with coexisting bony and/or ligamentous spinal canal or foraminal stenosis. This manuscript serves as a comprehensive and contemporary update on the radiological profile and two plausible treatment paths and will look toward further verification by a randomized clinical trial.
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Silcox KM, Daniels CJ, Bub GA, Wakefield PJ, Toombs JD. Spinal epidural lipomatosis presenting to a U.S. Veterans Affairs pain and rehabilitation department: a report of two cases. Chiropr Man Therap 2018; 26:33. [PMID: 30302238 PMCID: PMC6167793 DOI: 10.1186/s12998-018-0203-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal epidural lipomatosis is an uncommon source of neurogenic claudication. We present two cases of spinal epidural lipomatosis as it relates to diagnosis, management, and a possible association with common medical intervention. Case presentation Case 1: 63-year old male patient presented with neurogenic claudication symptoms, but without evidence of bony central canal stenosis on lumbar computed tomography. He entered a trial of spinal manipulation with transient beneficial gains after seven appointments, but no durable change in neurogenic claudication. An MRI was recommended at this point which revealed grade III spinal epidural lipomatosis at the L5/S1 level.Case 2: 51-year old male patient presented to a pain management physician with radicular symptoms for a series of lumbar epidural steroid injections. He completed a series of three lumbar epidural steroid injections with only short-term benefit. A repeat MRI demonstrated the presence of grade I (borderline grade II) spinal epidural lipomatosis. Conclusions The first case illustrates a limitation of ruling out central canal stenosis with computed tomography for patients unable to undergo an MRI. The second case demonstrates a possible association between steroid injections and spinal epidural lipomatosis. An association of this kind has not been established; further research is needed to determine the significance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Clinton J. Daniels
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System - American Lake, Tacoma, WA USA
- Adjunct Faculty Logan University, Chesterfield, MO USA
| | - Glenn A. Bub
- Adjunct Faculty Logan University, Chesterfield, MO USA
- Veterans Affairs Saint Louis Health Care System, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Pamela J. Wakefield
- Adjunct Faculty Logan University, Chesterfield, MO USA
- Veterans Affairs Saint Louis Health Care System, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - James D. Toombs
- Veterans Affairs Saint Louis Health Care System, St. Louis, MO USA
- Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO USA
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Kim YS, Ju CI, Kim SW, Kim HS. Cauda Equina Syndrome Caused by Idiopathic Epidural Lipomatosis. KOREAN JOURNAL OF SPINE 2015; 12:272-4. [PMID: 26834816 PMCID: PMC4731563 DOI: 10.14245/kjs.2015.12.4.272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Revised: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a rare condition that presents as a back pain with progressive neurologic symptoms. Most affected patients are obese and receiving steroid therapy, or have an endocrinopathies. We report a rare case of cauda equina syndrome caused by SEL in a non-obese healthy young man without any evident traumatic episode. A healthy 19-year-old man, who had experienced lower back pain for two months, visited our emergency room because of the sudden development of motor weakness and voiding difficulty. Lumbar magnetic resonance image revealed extradural fat compressing the cauda equina. Urgent decompression via posterior laminectomy and excision of excess epidural fat resulted in an immediate symptom improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Seong Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chosun University College of Medicine, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Chang Il Ju
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chosun University College of Medicine, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Seok Won Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chosun University College of Medicine, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Hyeun Sung Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanoori Hospital, Suwon, Korea
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Praver M, Kennedy BC, Ellis JA, D'Amico R, Mandigo CE. Severity of presentation is associated with time to recovery in spinal epidural lipomatosis. J Clin Neurosci 2015; 22:1244-9. [PMID: 26067546 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2015.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We present a patient with prednisone-induced spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) and relatively acute neurologic deterioration followed by rapid recovery after surgical decompression. SEL is a rare disease characterized by hypertrophy of epidural fat, most commonly associated with exogenous steroid use. To our knowledge, an analysis of the dynamics of steroid dose related to time to onset has never been performed, or of patient presentation features with respect to patient outcome. We retrospectively reviewed the literature for English language series and case reports of SEL associated with prednisone use from 1975-2013. Data were compiled for 41 patients regarding the prescribed dose of prednisone and length of treatment, as well as the severity of symptoms on the Ranawat scale, time to onset, time to recovery, and degree of recovery of neurological symptoms. Fisher's exact test and analysis of variance were used for comparing proportions, and p values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. We found that the mean cumulative dose of prednisone trended towards an association with a lack of recovery (p=0.06) and may be related to rate of recovery. Prescribed prednisone dose varied inversely with the time before onset of neurological symptoms, but failed to reach statistical significance. Higher severity of presenting symptoms on the Ranawat scale were found to be associated with a higher likelihood of delayed recovery (p=0.035). Patients with symptoms lower on the Ranawat scale more frequently experienced complete neurologic recovery, though this did not reach significance. The acuity of neurological deterioration was not related to the time to recovery or ultimate degree of recovery. Severity of presentation on the Ranawat scale is associated with rate of recovery and may be related to degree of recovery in SEL patients. Cumulative dose of prednisone may be related to degree and rate of recovery. Prescribed dose of prednisone may be related to time to onset of neurological symptoms. Acuity of neurological deterioration is not related to rate or degree of recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moshe Praver
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Benjamin C Kennedy
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jason A Ellis
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Randy D'Amico
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Christopher E Mandigo
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Živković SA. Neurologic complications after liver transplantation. World J Hepatol 2013; 5:409-416. [PMID: 24023979 PMCID: PMC3767839 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v5.i8.409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2013] [Revised: 06/21/2013] [Accepted: 07/13/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurologic complications are relatively common after solid organ transplantation and affect 15%-30% of liver transplant recipients. Etiology is often related to immunosuppressant neurotoxicity and opportunistic infections. Most common complications include seizures and encephalopathy, and occurrence of central pontine myelinolysis is relatively specific for liver transplant recipients. Delayed allograft function may precipitate hepatic encephalopathy and neurotoxicity of calcineurin inhibitors typically manifests with tremor, headaches and encephalopathy. Reduction of neurotoxic immunosuppressants or conversion to an alternative medication usually result in clinical improvement. Standard preventive and diagnostic protocols have helped to reduce the prevalence of opportunistic central nervous system (CNS) infections, but viral and fungal CNS infections still affect 1% of liver transplant recipients, and the morbidity and mortality in the affected patients remain fairly high. Critical illness myopathy may also affect up to 7% of liver transplant recipients. Liver insufficiency is also associated with various neurologic disorders which may improve or resolve after successful liver transplantation. Accurate diagnosis and timely intervention are essential to improve outcomes, while advances in clinical management and extended post-transplant survival are increasingly shifting the focus to chronic post-transplant complications which are often encountered in a community hospital and an outpatient setting.
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Miwa T, Yamashita T, Sakaura H, Ohzono K, Ohwada T. Steroid-induced paraparesis: spinal epidural lipomatosis complicated by a wedge deformity of the middle thoracic vertebrae. Intern Med 2013; 52:1621-4. [PMID: 23857097 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.52.9379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid therapy is commonly prescribed, although a variety of complications have been reported. Among such complications, spinal epidural lipomatosis is rare and difficult to diagnose before paraparesis occurs. The purpose of this report is to present a rare but catastrophic complication of steroid therapy. A 64-year-old woman undergoing long-term steroid therapy suffered from an osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture and was unable to walk due to paraparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a D7 compression fracture and stored epidural adipose tissue between D5 and D8. After surgery, the patient was able to walk with double canes. This case indicates that long-term steroid use has the potential to induce paraparesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshitada Miwa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kansai Rosai Hospital, Japan.
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Abstract
Neurologic complications affect posttransplant recovery of more than 20% of transplant recipients. Etiology is usually related to surgical procedure of transplantation, primary disorders causing failure of transplanted organ, opportunistic infections, and neurotoxicity of immunosuppressive medications. Risk of opportunistic infections and immunosuppressant neurotoxicity is greatest within the first six months, but it persists along with long-term maintenance immunosuppression required to prevent graft rejection. Neurotoxicity may require alteration of immunosuppressive regimen, and prompt therapy of opportunistic infections improves outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasa A Zivković
- Neurology Service, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, University Drive C, Pittsburgh, PA 15240, USA.
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Al-Khawaja D, Seex K, Eslick GD. Spinal epidural lipomatosis--a brief review. J Clin Neurosci 2008; 15:1323-1326. [PMID: 18954986 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2008.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2007] [Revised: 03/03/2008] [Accepted: 03/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a rare disorder characterized by overgrowth of fat in the extradural space, causing compression of the neural elements. It is frequently associated with the administration of exogenous steroids or elevation of endogenous steroids. We present two patients, both with epidural lipamotosis of idiopathic origin. One was 53-year-old man with progressive mid-thoracic and lower limb pain with associated weakness and neurogenic claudication due to thoracic epidural lipomatosis. The second was a 68-year-old male with lumbar epidural lipomatosis. Co-morbidities for the first patient included diabetes and obesity; however, there was no history of steroid administration. An MRI scan revealed thoracic cord compression, with significant stenosis at T4-T9. The second patient complained of progression of longstanding lumbar pain and claudicant symptoms. There was no history of steroid intake. An MRI revealed stenosis at L4-S1 and diffuse anterior lipomatosis. A literature review revealed 49 cases of idiopathic SEL and 62 of secondary SEL. We aimed to delineate the differences between these two relatively distinct entities including their anatomical distribution, clinical presentation and prognostic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darweesh Al-Khawaja
- Department of Neurosurgery, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia.
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Drappatz J, Schiff D, Kesari S, Norden AD, Wen PY. Medical management of brain tumor patients. Neurol Clin 2008; 25:1035-71, ix. [PMID: 17964025 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2007.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Brain tumors can present challenging medical problems. Seizures, peritumoral edema, venous thromboembolism, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction can complicate the treatment of patients who have primary or metastatic brain tumors. Effective medical management results in decreased morbidity and mortality and improved quality of life for affected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Drappatz
- Division of Neuro-Oncology, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Resnick IB, Gomori JM, Kiselgoff D, Lossos A, Zilberman I, Miron S, Bitan M, Or R, Slavin S, Shapira MY. Spinal epidural lipomatosis following haploidentical allogeneic bone marrow transplantation for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Clin Transplant 2005; 18:762-5. [PMID: 15516259 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0012.2004.00290.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Spinal epidural lipomatosis, is a very rare condition, usually seen as an uncommon complication of Cushing's syndrome secondary to chronic steroid therapy leading to increased fat deposits in the epidural space. CASE REPORT We report the first documented case of acute symptomatic spinal epidural lipomatosis in a patient with relapsed non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The patient underwent an allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) and a month of steroid treatment for acute graft vs. host disease (GvHD). He presented with a mild to moderate Cushing's syndrome and minimal obesity. He progressed rapidly to paraparesis, sensory deficit, urinary incontinence and finally respiratory arrest complicated with staphylococcal sepsis. CONCLUSION Epidural lipomatosis, with subacute thecal sac compression, is a possible life-threatening complication of relatively short-term systemic glucocorticoid therapy for GvHD in BMT setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor B Resnick
- Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cancer Immunotherapy, Hadassah University Hospital, Jerusalem, Israel.
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11
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Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Symptomatic spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL), a rare cause of spinal cord compression, has most often been associated with exogenous steroid use. PURPOSE Identify four associations with SEL, correlate the associated groups with level of disease and compare treatment with outcome data in these groups. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Case reports of three patients and analysis of 104 cases from the literature. PATIENT SAMPLE Three patients from the senior author's practice. OUTCOME MEASURES Not applicable. METHODS The authors report three new cases of SEL not associated with steroid use. They review all available English literature and present a table of all 104 reported cases. RESULTS The clinical course of three new patients is reported. CONCLUSIONS Associated conditions are exogenous steroid use, obesity, endogenous steroid excess, and some remain idiopathic. Although SEL is a rare condition, our review of the literature reveals many more reported cases than previously thought. With increased awareness of this condition and improved imaging techniques, further studies of this disease should be undertaken.
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Borré DG, Borré GE, Aude F, Palmieri GN. Lumbosacral epidural lipomatosis: MRI grading. Eur Radiol 2003; 13:1709-21. [PMID: 12835988 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-002-1716-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2002] [Revised: 08/19/2002] [Accepted: 09/02/2002] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Lumbosacral epidural lipomatosis (LEL) is characterized by excessive deposition of epidural fat (EF). The purpose of our retrospective study was to quantify normal and pathologic amounts of EF in order to develop a reproducible MRI grading of LEL. In this study of 2528 patients (1095 men and 1433 women; age range 18-84 years, mean age 47.3 years) we performed a retrospective analysis of MRI exams. We obtained four linear measurements at the axial plane parallel and tangent to the superior end plate of S1 vertebral body: antero-posterior diameter of dural sac (A-Pd DuS), A-Pd of EF, located ventrally and dorsally to the DuS, and A-Pd of the spinal canal (Spi C). We calculated (a) DuS/EF index and (b) EF/Spi C index. We developed the following MRI grading of LEL: normal, grade 0: DuS/EF index >or=1.5, EF/Spi C index <or=40%; LEL grade I: DuS/EF index 1.49-1, EF/Spi C index 41-50% (mild EF overgrowth); LEL grade II: DuS/EF index 0.99-0.34, EF/Spi C index 51-74% (moderate EF overgrowth); LEL grade III: DuS/EF index <or=0.33, EF/Spi C index >or=75% (severe EF overgrowth). The MRI exams were evaluated independently by three readers. Intra- and interobserver reliabilities were obtained by calculating Kappa statistics. The MRI grading showed the following distribution: grade 0, 2003 patients (79.2%); LEL grade I, 308 patients (12.2%); LEL grade II, 165 patients (6.5%); and LEL grade III, 52 patients (2.1%). The kappa coefficients for intra- and interobserver agreement in a four-grade classification system were substantial to excellent: intraobserver, kappa range 0.79 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.65-0.93] to 0.82 (95% CI, 0.70-0.95); interobserver, kappa range 0.76 (95% CI, 0.62-0.91) to 0.85 (95% CI, 0.73-0.97). In LEL grade I, there were no symptomatic cases due to fat hypertrophy. LEL grade II was symptomatic in only 24 cases (14.5%). In LEL grade III, all cases were symptomatic. A subgroup of 22 patients (42.3%) showed other substantial spinal pathologies (e.g., disk herniation). By means of simple reproducible measurements and indexes MRI grading enables a distinction between mild, moderate, and severe EF hypertrophy. Kappa statistics indicate that LEL can be reliably classified into a four-grade system by experienced observers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel G Borré
- Department of MRI, RM-Hastings, Clínica Monte Grande, Monte Grande, Buenos Aires, Argentina,
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Morimoto K, Takemoto O, Wakayama A. Multiplication of infantile spinal lipomas after surgical untethering. Report of two cases. J Neurosurg 2003; 98:285-7. [PMID: 12691386 DOI: 10.3171/spi.2003.98.3.0285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The authors reviewed 63 cases of patients with spinal lipomas who had undergone surgical untethering in childhood and found two infants in whom multiplication of the lipomas occurred within 1 year postoperatively. More importantly, the lipomas dramatically increased in size during infancy. In each case, the pathological findings on reoperation were identical to those in the first surgery. Subsequent imaging revealed no change in size of the lesions by 10 and 7 years after reoperation, respectively. This potential for growth of the lipomas should be kept in mind in infants with spinal lipomas who should undergo follow-up neuroimaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuyoshi Morimoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka Medical Center and Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Izumi, Osaka, Japan.
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Cersósimo MG, Lasala B, Folgar S, Micheli F. Epidural lipomatosis secondary to indinavir in an HIV-positive patient. Clin Neuropharmacol 2002; 25:51-4. [PMID: 11852297 DOI: 10.1097/00002826-200201000-00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A human immunodeficiency virus-positive patient receiving indinavir therapy developed a slowly progressive paraparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging findings were consistent with epidural lipomatosis. On discontinuing indinavir, symptoms gradually remitted. Although indinavir, a protease inhibitor, is known to cause abnormal fat accumulation, to the best of our knowledge this is the first report of epidural lipomatosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Graciela Cersósimo
- Department of Neurology and Infectious Diseases, Hospital de Clínicas "José de San Martín," U.B.A., Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Orendácová J, Cízková D, Kafka J, Lukácová N, Marsala M, Sulla I, Marsala J, Katsube N. Cauda equina syndrome. Prog Neurobiol 2001; 64:613-37. [PMID: 11311464 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-0082(00)00065-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Single or double-level compression of the lumbosacral nerve roots located in the dural sac results in a polyradicular symptomatology clinically diagnosed as cauda equina syndrome. The cauda equina nerve roots provide the sensory and motor innervation of most of the lower extremities, the pelvic floor and the sphincters. Therefore, in a fully developed cauda equina syndrome, multiple signs of sensory disorders may appear. These disorders include low-back pain, saddle anesthesia, bilateral sciatica, then motor weakness of the lower extremities or chronic paraplegia and, bladder dysfunction. Multiple etiologies can cause the cauda equina syndrome. Among them, non-neoplastic compressive etiologies such as herniated lumbosacral discs and spinal stenosis and spinal neoplasms play a significant role in the development of the cauda equina syndrome. Non-compressive etiologies of the cauda equina syndrome include ischemic insults, inflammatory conditions, spinal arachnoiditis and other infectious etiologies. The use of canine, porcine and rat models mimicking the cauda equina syndrome enabled discovery of the effects of the compression on nerve root neural and vascular anatomy, the impairment of impulse propagation and the changes of the neurotransmitters in the spinal cord after compression of cauda equina. The involvement of intrinsic spinal cord neurons in the compression-induced cauda equina syndrome includes anterograde, retrograde and transneuronal degeneration in the lumbosacral segments. Prominent changes of NADPH diaphorase exhibiting, Fos-like immunoreactive and heat shock protein HSP72 were detected in the lumbosacral segments in a short-and long-lasting compression of the cauda equina in the dog. Developments in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with back pain, sciatica and with a herniated lumbar disc are mentioned, including many treatment options available.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Orendácová
- Institute of Neurobiology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 040 01 Kosice, Slovak Republic.
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Lecube A, Cantón A, Antonio Baena J, Mesa J. [Adrenal carcinoma and spinal epidural lipomatosis]. Med Clin (Barc) 2001; 116:198. [PMID: 11222178 DOI: 10.1016/s0025-7753(01)71767-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Lisai P, Doria C, Crissantu L, Meloni GB, Conti M, Achene A. Cauda equina syndrome secondary to idiopathic spinal epidural lipomatosis. Spine (Phila Pa 1976) 2001; 26:307-9. [PMID: 11224868 DOI: 10.1097/00007632-200102010-00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Three cases of idiopathic epidural lipomatosis are reported. OBJECTIVES Description of the relationship between spinal pathologic overgrowth of fat tissue and neurologic symptoms. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Idiopathic epidural lipomatosis is a very rare condition; it is usually secondary to chronic steroid therapy or endocrinopathic diseases. METHODS Three men with a mean age of 58.5 years, who experienced intermittent claudication, bilateral radicular pain in both legs, and urinary dysfunction with hypoesthesia in the perineal region, were evaluated by plain radiography and magnetic resonance imaging, the results of which demonstrated a pathologic overgrowth of fat tissue in the spinal canal with a marked impingement of the dural sac. Obesity, endocrinopathic diseases, and chronic steroid therapy were excluded for all patients. Surgical treatment was performed by wide multilevel laminectomies, fat debulking, and instrumented posterolateral fusion. RESULTS After surgery there was a gradual improvement in symptoms and signs so that 2 years later the patients returned to daily activities and were neurologically normal. CONCLUSIONS Spinal epidural lipomatosis can be a cause of back pain but rarely radicular impingement. Magnetic resonance imaging is the procedure of choice. The treatment must be performed early by wide surgical decompression.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Lisai
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Sassari, Italy
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Sandberg DI, Lavyne MH. Symptomatic Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis after Local Epidural Corticosteroid Injections: Case Report. Neurosurgery 1999. [DOI: 10.1227/00006123-199907000-00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Sandberg DI, Lavyne MH. Symptomatic spinal epidural lipomatosis after local epidural corticosteroid injections: case report. Neurosurgery 1999; 45:162-5. [PMID: 10414580 DOI: 10.1097/00006123-199907000-00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE Spinal epidural lipomatosis, which causes symptomatic compression of neural elements, is a well known but uncommon complication of Cushing's syndrome. Spinal epidural lipomatosis has been reported frequently in association with chronic systemic corticosteroid therapy, but thus far only one case has been attributed to local epidural corticosteroid injections. CLINICAL PRESENTATION We report another case of symptomatic spinal epidural lipomatosis after epidural corticosteroid injections. This is the first such case documented by magnetic resonance imaging and confirmed with surgical exploration. INTERVENTION The patient's symptoms of neurogenic claudication resolved after lumbar laminectomy in the region of previous corticosteroid injections and the removal of epidural fat, which was compressing the thecal sac. CONCLUSION This case should alert clinicians that epidural lipomatosis, which causes symptomatic thecal sac compression, is a possible complication, not only of systemic glucocorticoid therapy, but also of local epidural corticosteroid injections.
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Affiliation(s)
- D I Sandberg
- Division of Neurosurgery, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, USA
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20
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Tuli SK, Hurlbert RJ, Mikulis D, Fleming JF. Ninety-degree rotation of the thoracic spinal thecal sac. Case report. J Neurosurg 1998; 89:133-8. [PMID: 9647184 DOI: 10.3171/jns.1998.89.1.0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This 44-year-old man presented with a 4-year history of progressive spastic weakness of his legs. He was found to have epidural lipomatosis behind the thoracic spinal cord, and the nerve roots exited from the posterior and anterior midline planes of the dura, indicating a 90 degree rotation of the thoracic cord. Magnetic resonance images clearly demonstrated the segmental thoracic nerve roots exiting from the dorsal midline of the dura, a finding confirmed at surgery. The authors found only one previously published case of rotation of the spinal cord. Directed mechanical stress caused by deformation of the rotated spinal cord, rather than compression from adipose tissue, is proposed as the mechanism of the myelopathy. The extent, location, and thickness of the associated extradural adipose tissue is suggestive of epidural lipomatosis. The lipomatous tissue might have been an epiphenomenon and cord rotation an isolated congenital anomaly. Alternatively, asymmetrical growth of epidural fat may have exerted torque, rotating the thecal sac.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Tuli
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, The Toronto Hospital, Ontario, Canada
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21
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Abstract
Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a condition in which excess adipose tissue is deposited circumferentially about the spinal cord in the epidural space. It is most frequently seen in patients on chronic glucocorticosteroid therapy for a variety of medical problems. This is a case report of lumbar epidural lipomatosis in a bodybuilder with radiculopathy supposedly induced by anabolic steroid intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Fiirgaard
- Department of Neuroradiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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22
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Qasho R, Ramundo OE, Maraglino C, Lunardi P, Ricci G. Epidural lipomatosis with lumbar radiculopathy in one obese patient. Case report and review of the literature. Neurosurg Rev 1997; 20:206-9. [PMID: 9297724 DOI: 10.1007/bf01105566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Idiopathic epidural spinal lipomas are rare: only 13 cases have been described in the literature. We report a further case in an obese patient without known etiological factors. Diagnosis of epidural lipomatosis was performed by MRI. Weight reduction was obtained by conservative treatment, reserving surgery in case symptoms did not disappear. Of the 8 obese patients with idiopathic epidural spinal lipomatosis described in the literature, 3 were treated conservatively, with complete regression of symptoms in 2 cases, partial in the other one. In our patient, the radicular symptomatology disappeared once he had lost weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Qasho
- Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Rome La Sapienza, Italy
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23
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Robertson SC, Traynelis VC, Follett KA, Menezes AH. Idiopathic spinal epidural lipomatosis. Neurosurgery 1997; 41:68-74; discussion 74-5. [PMID: 9218297 DOI: 10.1097/00006123-199707000-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEDL) is a rare disorder often associated with the administration of exogenous steroids or the elevation of endogenous steroids. Spinal epidural lipomatosis develops in some patients in the absence of elevated steroid levels. The limited information known about idiopathic SEDL comes predominantly from isolated case reports. We proposed to study our experience with idiopathic SEDL and to review the literature. METHODS We identified eight symptomatic patients with idiopathic SEDL treated at our institution, which is the largest series reported. All patients were male and obese by body mass index (> 27.5 kg/m2). The mean age of the patients was 35.4 years. Idiopathic SEDL was equally distributed between the thoracic and lumbar spine. Six patients underwent laminectomy and fat debulking with good postoperative results; two patients were treated with a weight loss diet, which resulted in the relief of symptoms after losing > 15 kg each. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION A review of our patients in conjunction with other reported cases reveals the following: 1) idiopathic SEDL occurs almost exclusively in the obese population; 2) idiopathic SEDL seems to occur with equal frequency between the thoracic and lumber spine; 3) a strong male predominance exists; 4) thoracic SEDL presents at an earlier age compared with lumbar SEDL; 5) surgical decompression remains the treatment of choice for the immediate relief of symptoms. Our experience suggests that idiopathic epidural lipomatosis may be a pathological entity that has been underdiagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Robertson
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, USA
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24
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Dujardin L, Marcelli C, Hérisson C, Simon L. [Epidural lipomatosis: complication of long-term corticotherapy. Apropos of 2 cases]. Rev Med Interne 1996; 17:563-7. [PMID: 8881382 DOI: 10.1016/0248-8663(96)83093-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is defined as the deposition of loose fat tissue in the epidural space. Two cases are reported which illustrate the main features of this uncommon disease. Most frequently SEL is revealed by neurologic manifestations such as an acute chronic spinal cord compression. Corticosteroid therapy and obesity are the main factors able to induce the disease. The common location of the SEL at the thoracic spine is explained by the physiologic abundance of fat and by the relative narrowness of the spinal canal at this level. An osteoporotic vertebral crush fracture which reduces the diameter of the canal frequently reveals the SEL. MRI confirms the diagnosis of SEL and shows the extent in the spinal canal. The treatment of SEL is difficult. The decrease or the stop of corticosteroid therapy has allowed the recovery in a few cases with chronic neurologic symptoms. The risks of a surgical procedure are important in these patients and the medical or surgical treatment should be discussed taking into account the clinical symptoms of SEL, its location and extent, and the risks of recurrence if corticosteroid therapy must go on.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Dujardin
- Service de rhumatologie, hôpital Lapeyronie, CHU, Montpellier, France
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25
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Hierholzer J, Benndorf G, Lehmann T, Schneider GH, Podrabsky P, Sander B, Sörensen R, Siekmann R, Stoltenburg G, Felix R. Epidural lipomatosis: case report and literature review. Neuroradiology 1996; 38:343-8. [PMID: 8738093 DOI: 10.1007/bf00596585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We report a case of symptomatic epidural lipomatosis in a 36-year-old man following a heart lung transplant and 3.5 years of steroid medication. A review of the pertinent literature emphasises the importance of including this diagnosis in the differential diagnosis of patients receiving steroid medication or markedly obese patients with back pain or symptoms suggesting spinal cord or cauda equina compression.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hierholzer
- Department of Radiology, Virchow-Klinikum, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
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26
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Hogg JP, Shank T, Gingold M, Bodensteiner J, Schochet SS, Kaufman HH. Childhood presentation of idiopathic epidural lipomatosis: a case report with magnetic resonance imaging and pathologic confirmation. J Child Neurol 1996; 11:236-40. [PMID: 8734029 DOI: 10.1177/088307389601100315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J P Hogg
- Department of Radiology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, USA
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27
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Kurt E, Bakker-Niezen SH. Neurogenic claudication by epidural lipomatosis: a case report and review of literature. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 1995; 97:354-7. [PMID: 8599908 DOI: 10.1016/0303-8467(95)00071-q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Epidural lipomatosis is most frequently seen in patients on chronic steroid treatment. Only twelve cases of idiopathic spinal epidural lipomatosis have been described. In this report we present an additional case of this condition in a middle-aged male presenting with neurogenic claudication.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kurt
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Rotterdam, Netherlands
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28
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Selmi F, Davies KG, Sharma RR, Redfern RM. Idiopathic spinal extradural lipomatosis in a non-obese otherwise healthy man. Br J Neurosurg 1994; 8:355-8. [PMID: 7946027 DOI: 10.3109/02688699409029626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Spinal extradural lipomatosis is rare and is usually associated with long-term steroid administration or obesity. It is most commonly thoracic in situation. We present a unique case of spinal extradural lipomatosis in a 20-year-old non-obese, clinically normal man. The role of MRI in investigation and the management options are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Selmi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Morriston Hospital, Swansea
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29
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Affiliation(s)
- D Lacomis
- Department of Medicine (Neurology Division), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115
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30
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Haddad SF, Hitchon PW, Godersky JC. Idiopathic and glucocorticoid-induced spinal epidural lipomatosis. J Neurosurg 1991; 74:38-42. [PMID: 1984504 DOI: 10.3171/jns.1991.74.1.0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Pathological overgrowth of the epidural fat in the spine has been described and reported nearly exclusively in patients either with Cushing's syndrome or on chronic intake of glucocorticoids for a variety of clinical disorders. The authors report four patients with documented spinal lipomatosis (three pathologically and one radiologically). Only one of these patients received corticosteroids, and none had an underlying endocrinological abnormality. All four patients were adult males with a mean age at onset of symptoms of 43 years (range from 18 to 60 years). The symptoms ranged from simple neurogenic claudication and radicular pain to frank myelopathy. Myelography followed by computerized tomography were instrumental in the diagnosis of the first three patients; the fourth was diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging. The thoracic spine was involved in two cases and the lumbosacral area in the other two. The different treatment modalities were tailored according to the symptomatology of the patients. These included weight reduction of an overweight patient with minimal neurological findings in one case and decompressive laminectomy and fat debulking to achieve adequate cord decompression in the remaining three cases. Two patients improved significantly, the condition of one stabilized, and the fourth required a second decompression at other spinal levels. The various modalities of treatment and their potential complications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S F Haddad
- Division of Neurosurgery, University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City
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