MR imaging in Spontaneous Spinal Epidural Haematoma

Spontaneous Spinal Epidural Haematoma (SSEH) is a rare disorder presenting as a neurological emergency. In most cases it is due to rupture of the epidural venous plexus and are associated with minor trauma, anticoagulant therapy and coagulation abnormalities. Arteriovenous malformations, haemangiomas and other vascular lesions are less common causes. Eight patients with SSEH over a four year period are included in the present study. Age range was 20-46 years. All were males. MR examination was performed in all patients. Epidural haematomas were hyperintense on T1 and T2 weighted images. Six patients underwent surgery. Coagulation abnormalities were found in five patients, four with long history of haemophilia, one patient with acute lymphocytic leukemia(ALL) and the other with hypoplastic anemia. Magnetic resonance imaging is the imaging modality of choice in the diagnosis of SSEH. The exact site and extent of haematoma and the degree of cord compression were accurately delineated and correlated well with surgery when performed.