Intramedullary and intratumoral hemorrhage in spinal hemangioblastoma: Case report and review of literature

Abstract

Background: Intramedullary hemorrhages involving spinal hemangioblastomas are rare. They are frequently associated with devastating neurologic outcomes, despite with emergent surgical intervention. Here, we presented an example of an intramedullary hemorrhage occurring in a spinal hemangioblastoma, where the patient markedly improved with surgery. Additionally, the appropriate literature was reviewed (including intraoperative video). Case Description: A 49‑year‑old female with a 4‑year history of tingling in the left lower extremity presented with vomiting, stepwise worsening of bilateral scapular pain, new upper motor neuron signs, and severe sensory loss bilaterally below C4 on the left and T4 on the right. The magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a well‑circumscribed, uniformly enhancing intramedullary tumor at the C2 level with hyperintensity on the T2 study consistent with acute hemorrhage and cord edema. An urgent C2 laminectomy was performed for gross total tumor resection. Intraoperatively, intramedullary hemorrhage was identified anterior to the tumor mass and was confirmed histopathologically. Postoperatively, the patient had no new sensorimotor deficits and fully recovered within two postoperative months. Conclusions: Patients presenting with acute intramedullary hemorrhage within hemangioblastomas of the spinal cord may demonstrate significant postoperative neurological recovery.