Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma. Another neurologic complication of cocaine?
OBJECTIVE
To describe a patient with a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma associated with cocaine use and to present issues related to pathogenesis and management of this potential complication.


METHODS
Case report.


METHODS
Municipal hospital.


METHODS
A spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma developed at the thoracic level in a 62-year-old man in association with cocaine use. Clinical, laboratory, and radiologic data are presented.


RESULTS
The patient was treated medically with intravenous and oral dexamethasone sodium phosphate. His neurologic status gradually improved during a 12-day hospitalization.


CONCLUSIONS
Cocaine use should be considered in the evaluation of spontaneous spinal epidural hemorrhage.
Samkoff
L M
LM
Department of Neurology, New York Medical College-Metropolitan Hospital Center, New York, USA.
Daras
M
M
Kleiman
A R
AR
Koppel
B S
BS
D003042:Cocaine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006407:Hematoma, Epidural, Cranial / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013116:Spinal Cord / Q000473:pathology*; D013997:Time Factors
D003042:Cocaine