Epidural cerebrospinal fluid collection following lumbar puncture in an adult patient: A case report and literature review

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage into the epidural space following lumbar puncture (LP) has been documented in pediatric patients, but there have been no reported cases in adults. CASE DESCRIPTION: We report an epidural CSF leak in an adult who presented with back pain, positional headache, urinary retention, and constipation following an LP performed as a part of a research study. The patient's magnetic resonance (MR) scan showed an extensive epidural CSF collection. Following placement in a recumbent position for 72 h, the collection fully resolved along with his neurological complaints. CONCLUSION: Symptomatic epidural CSF collections rarely occur in adults following LPs. Nevertheless, the management remains the same as for pediatric patients; bed rest for 72 h results typically in full resolution of symptoms/signs and regression of the collection on MR studies.