Spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma in Paediatrics

Key words: Spinal epidural hematoma, Spinal cord compression, Decompressive surgery

The spontaneous spinal epidural haematoma (SSEH) is a rare emergency condition due to an accumulation of blood in the epidural space that can compress the spinal cord and can lead to severe neurological sequelae. The typical symptom of SSEH is severe back or neck pain, followed by symptoms and signs of spinal cord compression. A detailed history and an accurate neurologic examination are important tools for early diagnosis and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is currently the diagnostic method of choice. Performing a rapid decompressive surgery is very important in achieving positive clinical outcomes. The paper presents a case of a 12-year-old boy who developed severe abdominal pain and progressive weakness in his legs. MRI demonstrated an epidural mass extending from C3 through T1, causing spinal cord compression. Emergent decompressive laminectomy was performed. Optimal functional outcomes were obtained.