Aggressive thoracic vertebral hemangioma: case report and literature review

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-023-00577-3 · Published: May 11, 2023

Surgery Spinal Disorders Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

Vertebral hemangiomas are common and typically benign vascular lesions found in the spine. However, a small percentage can become aggressive, expanding outside the bone and compressing the spinal cord. This case report describes a 39-year-old female who experienced worsening pain and paraplegia due to an aggressive thoracic vertebral hemangioma compressing her spinal cord. The patient underwent a combined surgical and endovascular treatment, resulting in improved symptoms. This case emphasizes the importance of identifying and treating this rare condition to improve patient outcomes.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One 39-year-old female

Evidence Level

Level 4: Case Report

Key Findings

1
Aggressive vertebral hemangiomas can cause significant pain and neurological symptoms due to spinal cord compression.
2
Imaging, particularly MRI, is crucial for identifying aggressive vertebral hemangiomas and differentiating them from benign lesions or other pathologies.
3
A combination of endovascular embolization and surgical intervention (decompression, resection, and fusion) can effectively treat aggressive vertebral hemangiomas and improve patient outcomes.

Research Summary

This case report describes a rare instance of an aggressive thoracic vertebral hemangioma in a 39-year-old female, leading to paraplegia and pain. The patient was successfully treated with a combination of endovascular embolization and surgical decompression/stabilization, resulting in neurological improvement. The report highlights the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies for aggressive vertebral hemangiomas to prevent significant neurological deficits.

Practical Implications

Early Diagnosis

Clinicians should consider aggressive vertebral hemangioma in patients presenting with progressive pain and neurological deficits, especially in the thoracic spine.

Multimodal Treatment

A combination of preoperative embolization and surgical intervention (decompression and stabilization) is often necessary for effective management.

Improved Outcomes

Timely diagnosis and treatment can lead to significant neurological improvement and improved quality of life for patients with aggressive vertebral hemangiomas.

Study Limitations

1
Single case report limits generalizability.
2
Limited information on long-term outcomes.
3
Lack of a standardized treatment protocol for aggressive vertebral hemangiomas.

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