Lumbar spinal nerve root cavernoma: A rare cause of Intradural extramedullary lesion – Case report

Abstract

Background: Intradural Extramedullary (IDEM) lesions constitute about 70% of all spinal tumors. Meningioma, schwannoma and neurofibroma are the most common lesions arising in this plane. Cavernoma arising intradurally from a spinal nerve root is one such entity. Case description: A 54 year old gentleman presented with clinical features of L4 radiculopathy and MRI was suggestive of spinal neurofibroma. During surgery a mulberry-like lesion arising from the intradural segment of spinal nerve root was visualized which was excised in toto with the patient showing good recovery postoperatively. Conclusion: Intradural spinal nerve root cavernomas should be considered as a differential diagnosis when an IDEM is suspected, as early intervention offers significantly improved outcomes and prevents morbidity. Due to the rarity of the condition we were able to document just a single case which to an extent limits the ability to infer more information.

Keywords

• Intradural extramedullary lesion
• Spinal nerve root cavernoma
• Mulberry like lesion