The Idiopathic Hypertrophic Spinal Pachymeningitis

Abstract

Idiopathic hypertrophic spinal pachymeningitis (IHSP) is a rare inflammatory condition characterized by chronic inflammatory hypertrophy of the dura mater. It can involve the entire spine. However, most cases are reported in the cervical and thoracic spine. It can progress from local pain to radiculopathy and eventually develop myelopathy. The aetiology of IHSP is not known. However, it has been suggested to be associated with many diseases. Here we report a case of IHSP in 21-year-old female who presented with paraplegia. The diagnosis was made on MRI Spine and histopathological examination. It was treated with surgical decompression, steroid therapy and patient improved gradually.

Keywords

• chronic inflammatory spinal pachymeningitis
• idiopathic
• paraplegia
• cord compression