A Case of Partial Resection of an Intradural Extramedullary Tuberculoma Resulting in Improvement of Lower Limb Paralysis

Cureus. 2023 Sep 11;15(9):e45017. doi: 10.7759/cureus.45017. eCollection 2023 Sep.

Abstract

Intradural extramedullary tuberculomas are a rare manifestation of tuberculosis that can lead to neurological deficits. We present a case of a 26-year-old male from Myanmar with lower limb weakness and gait disturbance, who was diagnosed with tuberculosis and found to have an intradural extramedullary lesion in the thoracic spine. Prompt surgical intervention was performed to address the lesion located at the T2-4 level. Although complete resection was hindered by strong adhesion, significant improvement in lower limb paralysis was achieved. The elasticity loss of the dura mater posed a challenge in suturing, necessitating duraplasty with a synthetic graft material. This case report emphasizes the potential significance of surgical intervention, including partial excision, in the management of intradural extramedullary tuberculomas. Surgical treatment can play a crucial role in improving neurological outcomes in patients with intradural extramedullary tuberculomas, even in challenging scenarios.

Keywords: adhesion; duraplasty; intradural extramedullary tuberculoma; partial excision; tuberculosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports