An Unusual Case of Dorsally Sequestrated Disk Mimicking Tumor with Cauda Equina Syndrome

Abstract

A 44-year-old male presented with acute onset retention of urine and low back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine demonstrated an extradural mass extending from the lower border of the L3 vertebra to upper border of L5 vertebra. Axial imaging showed the posterolaterally located mass lesion on left side, producing significant compression and displacement of thecal sac and exiting nerve root. Following contrast administration, there was a peripheral ring enhancement. Diagnosis of extradural mass lesion was made. In view of urinary retention, urgent laminectomy was performed. The massive sequestrated lumbar disk was found on an exploration that was excised completely. This resulted in prompt relief of backache. Bladder took 2 weeks for complete recovery. Here, an unusual case of sequestrated dorsally placed lumbar disk mimicking tumor is presented.