Document Detail


Cervical spinal epidural hematoma mimics acute ischemic stroke.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  21839603     Owner:  NLM     Status:  Publisher    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Spinal epidural hematoma is an accumulation of blood in the epidural space that can mechanically compress the spinal cord. It is an uncommon condition, and most cases occur spontaneously. Detailed evaluation of neurologic deficit and detailed history taking are important tools for early diagnosis, and magnetic resonance imaging is currently the diagnostic method of choice. Prompt surgical intervention is important in achieving positive clinical outcomes. Spinal epidural hematoma usually comes with acute, severe pain with radiation to the extremities and may be accompanied with severe neurologic deficit. Common neurologic signs include paraparesis and quadriparesis. Here, we report 2 cases of cervical spinal epidural hematoma with sudden onset of neck pain, followed by the development of unilateral limbs weakness and respiratory distress. Both patients were initially suspected to have acute ischemic stroke and were considered using intravenous thrombolytic therapy with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator as treatment. Cervical spinal epidural hematoma was confirmed after obtaining magnetic resonance imaging. Patients with this uncommon presentation must be carefully distinguished from acute stroke. This article aimed to highlight the potential pitfalls in diagnosing acute hemiparesis with no cranial nerves deficits and the importance of clinical suspicion.
Authors:
Kuang-Chung Liou; Lu-An Chen; Ya-Ju Lin
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Publication Detail:
Type:  JOURNAL ARTICLE     Date:  2011-8-10
Journal Detail:
Title:  The American journal of emergency medicine     Volume:  -     ISSN:  1532-8171     ISO Abbreviation:  -     Publication Date:  2011 Aug 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2011-8-15     Completed Date:  -     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  8309942     Medline TA:  Am J Emerg Med     Country:  -    
Other Details:
Languages:  ENG     Pagination:  -     Citation Subset:  -    
Copyright Information:
Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
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