Paraplegia due to Spinal Epidermoid Cyst Rupture at Asthma Attack

Abstract

Spinal epidermoid cyst is less than 1% of the entire spinal cord tumor and a rare tumor. It is a slowly proliferating benign tumor and can be a result of either congenital or acquired factors. In particular, reports of acute paraplegia due to spinal epidermoid cyst rupture are very rare. Since authors experienced paraplegia resulting from congenital spinal epidermoid cyst rupture during an asthma attack, it is reported with a review of literature.

Case Report: Recurrence of an Extradural Spinal Epidermoid Cyst Following Surgical Excision in a Dog

“…Following cyst rupture, cystic contents that enter the subarachnoid space or contact the meninges can produce a granulomatous or chemical meningitis attributed to fatty acids and cholesterol (6). In people, cystic rupture has been reported with extradural, intradural-extramedullary and intramedullary locations and has been associated with gradual onset of weakness or occasionally acute paraplegia (29,30). Therefore, drainage of cystic contents prior to surgical debulking is a routine strategy in people to minimize the risk of cystic rupture (24).…”