MR findings of intrathecal chemotherapy-related myelopathy in two cases: mimicker of subacute combined degeneration

J Neuroimaging. 2007 Apr;17(2):184-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1552-6569.2007.00094.x.

Abstract

We report the findings of spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 2 patients who had undergone intrathecal chemotherapy and presented with the subacute onset of ascending numbness and weakness. MRI revealed a symmetric hyperintensity at the posterior columns of the spinal cord from the lower cervical region down to the conus medullaris level on T2-weighted images, and no abnormal enhancement. The imaging findings are similar to those seen in subacute combined degeneration (SCD), but the serum vitamin B(12) levels were normal in these 2 cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / drug therapy
  • Middle Aged
  • Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma / drug therapy
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Subacute Combined Degeneration / diagnosis

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents