Published online Jul 16, 2021. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i20.5594
Peer-review started: March 1, 2021
First decision: May 11, 2021
Revised: May 19, 2021
Accepted: May 27, 2021
Article in press: May 27, 2021
Published online: July 16, 2021
Processing time: 127 Days and 23.9 Hours
Spinal dural arteriovenous fistula (SDAVF) is an extremely rare vascular malformation of the central nervous system that is often confused with degenerative spinal disorders due to similar early symptoms and clinical features. Here, we report a case of SDAVF recurrence 8 years after lumbar spine surgery and summarize relevant literature.
A 54-year-old male was admitted to our hospital complaining of lower back pain, numbness in both lower extremities and intermittent claudication. Subsequent imaging identified lumbar spinal stenosis. Following surgical treatment, the patient’s symptoms significantly resolved, and he was able to perform daily activities. However, similar symptoms appeared 8 years later, followed by confirmation of SDAVF diagnosis. The patient underwent neurosurgery 7 mo after symptom onset. The follow-up period lasted 14 mo, and the patient remains with marginal neurological symptoms.
This case highlights the importance of prompt SDAVF diagnosis. Due to its nonspecific clinical presentation, the clinical experience of the surgeon and definitive imaging examination are indispensable. Additionally, timely neuro
Core Tip: Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (SDAVFs) are rare disorders because its onset and early symptoms resemble more common disorders, especially spinal degeneration disease. It is therefore often misdiagnosed and misclassified, resulting in ineffective clinical interventions, hence poor prognosis. Here, we report a case of SDAVF that went into remission, but symptoms recurred 8 years later as lumbar spinal stenosis, supporting the idea that SDAVF is an acquired disorder. Currently, imaging is an important way of confirming SDAVF diagnosis. Early, effective treatment may significantly improve SDAVF prognosis.