Journal of Advanced Clinical Neurology Research
Open Access • Peer Reviewed • Bi-Monthly Publication
Paraplegia Revealing a Giant Nondysraphic Intramedullary Lipoma Mimicking a Dermoid Cyst: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Abstract
Background: Nondysraphic intramedullary lipomas are rare benign tumors and represent less than 1 % of all intramedullary tumors. They are slow-growing tumors which can cause progressive neurologic deficits due to local extension.
Case Description: A 38-year-old woman, with no significant medical history, was admitted within our department for 5 months history of thoracic back pain associated with progressive numbness of the lower limbs with bladder and bowel disturbance. Cervicothoracic spine MRI revealed a huge intramedullary lipoma extended from C6-T3. She underwent a total removal of the lesion. The post-operative course was usefulness after 12 months of physiotherapy.
Conclusion: Nondysraphic intramedullary lipomas are extremely rare. There is no consensus regarding the management of these lesions. Gross total resection can be an option for severe neurological compromised patients following by physiotherapy.
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