# Acute idiopathic spinal subdural hematoma: a case report

**Authors:** David Shaked Zari, Ronen Spierer, Itay Ron, Jacob Shapira, Doron Norman, Shadi Hayek, Wassim Mazarieb

PMC · DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjaf230 · Journal of Surgical Case Reports · 2025-04-28

## TL;DR

A 34-year-old woman with no known health issues suddenly developed paralysis after back pain, and was diagnosed with a rare spinal subdural hematoma that was successfully treated with surgery.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the importance of early diagnosis and surgical intervention for acute idiopathic spinal subdural hematoma.

## Key findings

- Magnetic resonance imaging is the best diagnostic tool for spinal subdural hematoma.
- Early decompressive laminectomy is crucial for successful treatment.
- The patient regained independent walking ability eight months after surgery.

## Abstract

Acute idiopathic (spontaneous) spinal subdural hematoma (spinal subdural hematomas is a rare neurosurgical emergency, often linked to coagulation disorders, trauma, iatrogenic, and underlying neoplasm, with symptoms worsening gradually. A healthy 34-year-old woman developed sudden paraplegia after back pain. Urgent T1–T2 laminectomy revealed a subdural hematoma, leading to successful evacuation. Eight months postoperative, she walks independently with reduced spasticity and intact muscle strength. The initial presentation may be subtle and symptoms worsen rapidly. Magnetic resonance imaging is the best diagnostic tool, and early decompressive laminectomy is crucial if needed.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** paraplegia (MONDO:0003757)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** neoplasm (MESH:D009369), paraplegia (MESH:D010264), spasticity (MESH:D009128), coagulation disorders (MESH:D001778), trauma (MESH:D014947), subdural hematoma (MESH:D006408), back pain (MESH:D001416)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

2 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12035698/full.md

## References

10 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12035698/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12035698