Spinal epidural hematoma and ankylosing spondylitis
Hissa, E.; Boumphrey, F.; Bay, J.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research 208: 225-227
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0009-921X PMID: 3720127 Document Number: 283913
A typical case of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in a 53-year-old man illustrates the high risk of spinal injury. When compared to the healthy subjects, patients with ankylosing spondylitis are at risk even after trivial injury. Spinal epidural hematoma is rare and generally associated with significant osseous spinal column involvement. Although rare, hematoma should be considered in ankylosing spondylitis patients, when a patient develops progressive neurologic symptoms and signs. An aggressive approach, including early decompression, affords the best chance for recovery.