Thoracic spinal cord compression by ligamentum flavum ossifications.
Ossification of the ligamentum flavum is common in Japan but rare in Western countries. Myelopathy of variable severity is a possible complication. Extension of the lesions over several levels at the thoracic spine is exceedingly rare. We report a new case in a 50-year-old man who had slowly progressive spinal cord compression with a sensory level at the navel. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the thoracic spine showed calcium-density masses that were in contact with the neural arches and bulged into the spinal canal at T5/T6, T7/T8, T9/T10, and T10/T11. Laboratory test findings were unremarkable. Surgical decompression by laminectomy and foraminotomy was followed by a favorable outcome. Histology showed extensive areas of bone metaplasia associated with calcific deposits. The diagnosis, treatment, and possible etiologies of this rare condition are discussed based on a literature review.
Akhaddar
Ali
A
Neurosurgery department, Hôpital Militaire d'Instruction Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco. akhaddar@hotmail.com
Mansouri
Abdelaziz
A
Zrara
Ibtissame
I
Gazzaz
Miloudi
M
Maftah
Mohamed
M
Mostarchid
Brahim
B
Benomar
Said
S
Boucetta
Mohamed
M
D006801:Humans; D017843:Ligamentum Flavum / Q000473:pathology*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009999:Ossification, Heterotopic / Q000150:complications*; D013117:Spinal Cord Compression / Q000209:etiology*; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae