Sarcoidosis presenting as an intramedullary spinal cord lesion

Abstract

Objectives: Sarcoidosis affects the spinal cord in only 0.43% of ptients with sarcoidosis. Usually there is systemic involvement prior to the development of cord lesions. We present a case of sarcoid isolated to the intramedullary spinal cord, which was a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. We review the case and then present a review of the literature with an emphasis on presentation, diagnosis and treatment. Methods: We have reviewed a patient who presented with an isolated sarcoid granuloma affecting the cervical spinal cord. All pertinent history and physical information was extracted from the patient's chart and through patient interview. Laboratory, radiographic and pathological investigations are presented. Results and conclusions: Fourteen patients have been reported with isolated intramedullary spinal cord sarcoidosis. Current practice supports the role of surgery for biopsy; mainstay of treatment is corticosteroids.