Non-traumatic spinal intradural haematoma: a rare case of paralysis following abciximab for ST elevation acute coronary syndrome

BMJ Case Rep, 2016 · DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-215616 · Published: April 19, 2016

Simple Explanation

A previously healthy 64-year-old man presented with chest pain and was diagnosed with an acute coronary syndrome. He was treated with medications, including abciximab, to prevent blood clots. After the procedure, the patient developed severe lower back pain, urinary retention, loss of anal sphincter tone, bilateral lower limb areflexia and T12 sensory level, indicating a spinal cord problem. An MRI scan revealed a haematoma (blood clot) inside the spinal canal, compressing the spinal cord. The clot was surgically removed, and after rehabilitation, the patient regained some function.

Study Duration

5 months

Participants

One 64-year-old man

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
The patient developed a non-traumatic spinal intradural haematoma after being treated with abciximab for acute coronary syndrome.
2
MRI is the imaging modality of choice for spinal cord pathology.
3
Prompt neurosurgical evacuation of the clot is essential to improve patient outcomes and neurological recovery.

Research Summary

This case report describes a rare instance of a non-traumatic spinal intradural haematoma occurring in a patient treated with abciximab for an acute coronary syndrome. The patient presented with neurological deficits, and an MRI revealed a spinal haematoma compressing the spinal cord. Prompt surgical intervention and rehabilitation led to a remarkable recovery. The report highlights the importance of vigilance in monitoring patients on potent antithrombotic therapies and the need for prompt investigation of acute back pain with neurological deficits.

Practical Implications

Increased Awareness

Clinicians should be aware of the rare but serious complication of spinal intradural haematoma in patients receiving antithrombotic therapies.

Prompt Diagnosis

Acute back pain with neurological deficits should be urgently investigated with MRI to rule out spinal cord pathology.

Rapid Intervention

Spinal intradural haematomas require prompt neurosurgical evacuation to improve patient outcomes and neurological recovery.

Non-traumatic spinal intradural haematoma: a rare case of paralysis following abciximab for ST elevation acute coronary syndrome

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Increased Awareness

Prompt Diagnosis

Rapid Intervention

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Non-traumatic spinal intradural haematoma: a rare case of paralysis following abciximab for ST elevation acute coronary syndrome

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Increased Awareness

Prompt Diagnosis

Rapid Intervention

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?