Motor recovery after acute hemiparesis caused by spontaneous cervical spinal epidural hematoma: a case report

Abstract

Spontaneous Spinal Epidural Hematoma (SSEH) is a rare condition characterized by the accumulation of blood within the epidural compartment of the cervical spinal column, leading to compression of neurological structures. Swift medical and surgical intervention is imperative due to the severe neurological consequences that may arise. In this context, we present the case of a 69-year-old woman who exhibited profound right hemiparesis, ultimately unveiling a posterior epidural compression. Given initial suspicions of a neoplastic process, the administration of 80 mg prednisolone was initiated as an emergency measure, remarkably resulting in rapid clinical amelioration. Subsequently, the planned surgical intervention for this lesion was deferred, and the patient's medical treatment persisted for 6 days. Strikingly, a full recovery of the motor deficit was discerned within 48 hours from the commencement of the medical regimen. This case underscores the successful employment of corticosteroids in the resolution of a SSEH, as evidenced by the complete recovery of motor function within a 48-hour window after the inception of medical intervention.