Spinal Spot Sign

Neurologist. 2015 Dec;20(6):104-5. doi: 10.1097/NRL.0000000000000062.

Abstract

Introduction: A marker predictive of hematoma expansion in the central nervous system could aid the selection of patients for hemostatic or surgical treatment.

Case report: Here, we present a 83-year-old patient with acute spinal subdural hematoma with paraparesis progressing to paraplegia. A contrast extravasation within the intraspinal hematoma was visualized on spinal MR indicating active bleeding (spinal spot sign). A second acquisition of contrast-enhanced MR images showed progression of contrast extravasation helping to different active bleeding from spinal arteriovenous malformations/fistula.

Conclusions: A "spinal spot sign" may be important for treatment decisions, notably in patients with incomplete neurological deficits at the time of imaging.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Biomarkers
  • Contrast Media
  • Hematoma, Subdural, Spinal / complications
  • Hematoma, Subdural, Spinal / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Male
  • Paraplegia / etiology
  • Paraplegia / pathology*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Contrast Media