Extruded disc causes acute cervical epidural hematoma and cord compression: a case report

Abstract

Cervical spontaneous epidural hematoma is a serious neurosurgical pathology that often requires prompt surgical intervention. While a variety of causes may contribute, the authors present the first case in the literature of cervical disc extrusion provoking epidural hemorrhage and acute neurological deterioration. A 65 year old male presented with six months of worsening signs and symptoms of cervical myelopathy. He had progressive deterioration over the course of two weeks leading to ambulatory dysfunction requiring a cane for assistance. While undergoing his medical workup in the emergency department, the patient became acutely plegic in the right lower extremity prompting emergent surgical decompression and stabilization. Based on imaging, pathology, and intraoperative findings, it was concluded that the patient had an extruded disc segment that may have precipitated venous bleeding in the epidural space and findings of acute cervical cord compression. Cervical disc extrusion may lead to venous damage, epidural hematoma, and spinal cord compression. If this unique presentation is recognized and addressed in a timely manner, patient outcomes may still be largely positive as this case demonstrates.