Spontaneous Subarachnoid Haemorrhage in Spinal Hemangioblastoma: Illustrative Case and Discussion of a Pathophysiological Hypothesis

Abstract

Spontaneous non-aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (naSAH) is an unusual finding that could be burdened by significant mortality and morbidity rates. Rare pathologies and delayed diagnosis could be advocated as responsible of unfavourable outcomes. Herein, we describe an exceedingly rare giant lumbar spinal hemangioblastoma (80 × 23 mm) presenting as an intracranial naSAH. Based on our radiological and clinical findings a pathophysiological hypothesis linking intracranial naSAH to venous hypertension was discussed for the first time even among lumbar spinal tumors. Although rare, unusual causes should be investigated in presence of radiological atypical finding as a prompt evaluation and treatment could be needed.

Keywords: Hemangioblastoma; Spinal tumor; Subarachnoid haemorrhage; Venous hypertension.