Rapid onset aggressive vertebral haemangioma.
BACKGROUND
Vertebral haemangiomas are generally benign asymptomatic vascular tumours seen commonly in the adult population. Presentations in paediatric populations are extremely rare, which can result in rapid onset of neurological symptoms. We present a highly unusual case of an aggressive paediatric vertebral haemangioma causing significant cord compression.


METHODS
A 13-year-old boy presented with only 2 weeks duration of progressive gait disturbance, truncal ataxia and loss of bladder control. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine revealed a large vascular epidural mass extending between T6 and T8 vertebral bodies. Associated displacement and compression of the spinal cord was present. A highly vascular bony lesion was found during surgery. Histopathology identified this tumour to be a vertebral haemangioma.


CONCLUSIONS
We present an extremely unusual acute presentation of a paediatric vertebral haemangioma. This study highlights the need for early diagnosis, MRI for investigation and urgent surgical management.
Department of Neurosurgery, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia. Nicholas.Cheung@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au
Nicholas K
NK
Cheung
Xenia
X
Doorenbosch
John G
JG
Christie
D000293:Adolescent; D006391:Hemangioma / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007796:Laminectomy; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D013117:Spinal Cord Compression / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D013125:Spinal Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D016896:Treatment Outcome
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