2001, Number 5
Astrocytoma of cervical spine. A case report
Zarur MN, Caldelas CE, Gómez BCD
Language: Spanish
References: 7
Page: 245-246
PDF size: 26.88 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Objective. Since most common spinal malignant tumors are metastatic, the importance of suspicion for intentional diagnosis of primary malignant infra-spinal tumors is pointed out. Material and methods. The clinical case of an astrocitoma in the cervical spine is reported. A youngster male 19-years old underwent multiple trauma in an assault, including trauma in the head, face and neck. Painful clinical picture was relieved after treatment by a two-week rehabilitation program. However, a new onset of cervical pain associated to upper limbs disestesia started after another two weeks (one month after trauma). MRI revealed a cavity and a mass in the C-spinal cord. Excision surgery demonstrated an encapsulated astrocitoma. Patient healed and recovered after a second rehabilitation program with no neural damage. Conclusion. In spite of the apparent low frequency of malignant tumors related to trauma in spine, diagnosis must be suspected as it has been pointed out by the current case, since there can be a unique opportunity for early and effective treatment as well as for any kind of malignancy.REFERENCES