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Liu Z, Wang Y, Ma X, Zhang L, Wang C. Role of epidural fat in the local milieu: what we know and what we don't. Connect Tissue Res 2024; 65:102-116. [PMID: 38493368 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2024.2329871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Traditionally, the epidural fat (EF) is known as a physical buffer for the dural sac against the force and a lubricant facilitating the relative motion of the latter on the osseous spine. Along with the development of the studies on EF, controversies still exist on vital questions, such as the underlying mechanism of the spinal epidural lipomatosis. Meanwhile, the scattered and fragmented researches hinder the global insight into the seemingly dispensable tissue. METHODS Herein, we reviewed literature on the EF and its derivatives to elucidate the dynamic change and complex function of EF in the local milieu, especially at the pathophysiological conditions. We start with an introduction to EF and the current pathogenic landscape, emphasizing the interlink between the EF and adjacent structures. We generally categorize the major pathological changes of the EF into hypertrophy, atrophy, and inflammation. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS It is acknowledged that not only the EF (or its cellular components) may be influenced by various endogenic/exogenic and focal/systematic stimuli, but the adjacent structures can also in turn be affected by the EF, which may be a hidden pathogenic clue for specific spinal disease. Meanwhile, the unrevealed sections, which are also the directions the future research, are proposed according to the objective result and rational inference. Further effort should be taken to reveal the underlying mechanism and develop novel therapeutic pathways for the relevant diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiming Liu
- Department of Spine Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yida Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xuexiao Ma
- Department of Spine Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Medical Research Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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Rigsby RK, Barnes S, Sabaté J, Oyoyo U, Chowdhury S, Peters EM. Correlation of spinal epidural fat volume with body mass index: a longitudinal study. Clin Imaging 2023; 98:61-66. [PMID: 37004496 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2023.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Spinal epidural lipomatosis is abnormal accumulation of normal fat in the epidural space with weight loss suggested as first-line therapy in select symptomatic patients. However, moderate to large longitudinal studies establishing concordant changes between body mass index and epidural fat are lacking. The purpose of this study was to longitudinally assess this relationship. METHODS We performed an ancillary study of the Habitual Diet and Avocado Trial. Baseline and six-month abdominal MRIs were analyzed for 98 overweight or obese but otherwise healthy subjects. Dorsal epidural fat volumes in the lumbar spine were measured and correlated with changes in body mass index, changes in visceral fat volume, and demographic information. RESULTS There was a linear relationship between body mass index changes and epidural fat volume changes with a one-point change in body mass index corresponding to a 45 mm3 change in dorsal epidural fat volume (p < 0.001, 95% CI 31.87 to 76.77) as well as between visceral fat volume changes and epidural fat volume changes (regression coefficient 0.51, p < 0.001, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.47). Age was inversely related with subjects older than 45.7 years tending to lose epidural fat (regression coefficient -0.22, p = 0.025, 95% CI -10.43 to -0.72). CONCLUSION Changes in spinal dorsal epidural fat volume parallel changes in body mass index and visceral fat, supporting weight loss as initial treatment for uncomplicated obesity-associated spinal epidural lipomatosis.
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D’Agostino V, Petrera MR, Tedesco G, Pipola V, Ponti F, Spinnato P. Could Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis Be the Hallmark of Metabolic Syndrome on the Spine? A Literature Review with Emphasis on Etiology. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13020322. [PMID: 36673132 PMCID: PMC9858169 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13020322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal epidural lipomatosis is defined by an excessive amount of epidural fat in the spinal canal, usually in the lumbosacral tract: a well-known cause of lumbar pain and spinal stenosis with a possible wide range of neurological symptoms. Recent research data reveal that, nowadays, obesity has become the main cause of spinal epidural lipomatosis. Moreover, this condition was recently recognized as a previously unknown manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Radiological studies (CT and MRI) are the only tools that are able to diagnose the disease non-invasively. Indeed, radiologists play a key role in disease recognition, with subsequent possible implications on patients' systemic health assessments. Despite its clinical importance, the condition is still underreported and neglected. The current literature review summarizes all the main etiologies of spinal epidural lipomatosis, particularly regarding its linkage with metabolic syndrome. An overview of disease characteristics from diagnosis to treatment strategies is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio D’Agostino
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Miriana Rosaria Petrera
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Tedesco
- Spine Surgery, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Valerio Pipola
- Spine Surgery, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Ponti
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Spinnato
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, 40136 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: or
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Holder EK, Raju R, Dundas MA, Husu EN, McCormick ZL. Is there an association between lumbosacral epidural lipomatosis and lumbosacral epidural steroid injections? A comprehensive narrative literature review. NORTH AMERICAN SPINE SOCIETY JOURNAL (NASSJ) 2022; 9:100101. [PMID: 35243452 PMCID: PMC8857075 DOI: 10.1016/j.xnsj.2022.100101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Exogenous systemic steroid exposure is a well-established risk factor for spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL), however the association between lumbosacral epidural steroid injections (LESIs) and lumbosacral epidural lipomatosis (LEL) is generally regarded as poorly understood. Our objective was to investigate the rationale and the evidence implicating LESI(s) as a potential cause of LEL as well as the evidence related to use of LESI(s) as a potential pain relieving treatment option for radicular pain in the setting of LEL. Methods PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, OVID were searched from inception until April 2021. Three investigators identified literature that provided original descriptive patient clinical data attributing the development/progression of LEL to LESI(s) or described the use of LESI(s) as a pain relieving modality for radicular pain in the setting of LEL. Results Fourteen publications were included for review. Overall, the current level of evidence is of low-quality. There are significant methodological gaps on this subject matter and many studies do not account for confounding variables independently associated with LEL. Conclusions This review has identified substantial limitations in the literature regarding that which is truly known regarding LESI(s) and LEL, as well as conservative management overall. To provide a well-rounded perspective, we synthesized literature as it pertains to: 1) current knowledge regarding SEL, notable associations and potential implications for corticosteroid exposure; 2) corticosteroid exposure and lipoatrophy; 3) current management recommendations for SEL and 4) areas for future focus. Although LESI(s) have been associated with LEL in the literature, presently due to a lack of rigorous, high-quality studies, the presence or absence of an independent causal relationship between LESI(s) and LEL cannot be stated with confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric K. Holder
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation: Section of Physiatry, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Corresponding author at: Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, P.O Box 208071, USA.
| | - Robin Raju
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation: Section of Physiatry, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Mark A. Dundas
- Yale University School of Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation: Section of Physiatry, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Emanuel N. Husu
- Baylor College of Medicine, H. Ben Taub Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Houston, TX, USA
- Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Chicago Medical School, Department of Clinical Sciences, North Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Zachary L. McCormick
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Neal MT, Patra DP, Lyons MK. Surgical management of thoracic myelopathy from long-segment epidural lipomatosis with skip hemilaminotomies: illustrative case. JOURNAL OF NEUROSURGERY: CASE LESSONS 2021; 2:CASE21595. [PMID: 35855484 PMCID: PMC9281437 DOI: 10.3171/case21595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thoracic spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) involves the pathological overgrowth of histologically normal, unencapsulated adipose tissue that can compress the spinal cord and cause myelopathy. SEL has been associated with multiple medical conditions, including Scheuermann kyphosis (SK). Optimal treatment strategies for SEL, especially in the setting of a sagittal spinal deformity, remain unclear. OBSERVATIONS In this report, the authors discussed surgical management of a patient with thoracic SEL and SK using skip hemilaminotomies for resection of the epidural adipose tissue. To the authors’ knowledge, only one other report described a similar surgical technique in a patient who did not have a spinal deformity. LESSONS When conservative efforts fail, thoracic SEL may require surgical treatment. Surgical planning must account for co-medical conditions such as SK. The described approach involving skip laminotomies, which minimizes spine destabilization, is a viable option to treat SEL spanning multiple spinal segments. Prognosis after surgical treatment varies and is impacted by multiple factors, including severity of preoperative neurological deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Devi P. Patra
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Mark K. Lyons
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, Arizona
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Yamada T, Horikawa M, Sato T, Kahyo T, Takanashi Y, Ushirozako H, Kurosu K, Al Mamun M, Mihara Y, Oe S, Arima H, Banno T, Yosida G, Hasegawa T, Yamato Y, Matsuyama Y, Setou M. Hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum in lumbar spinal canal stenosis is associated with abnormal accumulation of specific lipids. Sci Rep 2021; 11:23515. [PMID: 34873238 PMCID: PMC8648848 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-02818-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (HLF) is the most important component of lumbar spinal canal stenosis (LSCS). Analysis of hypertrophied ligamentum flavum (HLF) samples from patients with LSCS can be an important que. The current study analyzed the surgical samples of HLF samples in patients with LCSC using quantitative and qualitative high performance-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. We collected ligamentum flavum (LF) tissue from twelve patients with LSCS and from four patients with lumbar disk herniation (LDH). We defined LF from LSCS patients as HLF and that from LDH patients as non-hypertrophied ligamentum flavum (NHLF). Total lipids were extracted from the LF samples and evaluated for quantity and quality using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. The total lipid amount of the HLF group was 3.6 times higher than that of the NHLF group. Phosphatidylcholines (PCs), ceramides (Cers), O-acyl-ω-hydroxy fatty acids (OAHFAs), and triglycerides (TGs) in the HLF group were more than 32 times higher than those of the NHLF group. PC(26:0)+H+, PC(25:0)+H+, and PC(23:0)+H+ increased in all patients in the HLF group compared to the NHLF group. The thickness of the LF correlated significantly with PC(26:0)+H+ in HLF. We identified the enriched specific PCs, Cers, OAHFAs, and TGs in HLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Yamada
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Makoto Horikawa
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-city, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan.,International Mass Imaging Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan.,Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Graduate School of Advanced Science of Matter, Hiroshima University, 1-4-4, Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, 739-7763, Japan
| | - Tomohito Sato
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-city, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan.,International Mass Imaging Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Tomoaki Kahyo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-city, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yusuke Takanashi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-city, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Hiroki Ushirozako
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Kenta Kurosu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Md Al Mamun
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-city, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yuki Mihara
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Shin Oe
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Arima
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Banno
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Go Yosida
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Hasegawa
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yu Yamato
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Matsuyama
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Mitsutoshi Setou
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1, Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-city, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan. .,International Mass Imaging Center, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan. .,Department of Systems Molecular Anatomy, Institute for Medical Photonics Research, Preeminent Medical Photonics Education and Research Center, 1-20-1 Handayama, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan.
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Lumbar Epidural Lipomatosis is Increased in Patients With Morbid Obesity and Subsequently Decreases After Bariatric Surgery. World Neurosurg 2021; 158:e495-e500. [PMID: 34774806 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2021.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is characterized by symptomatic neurogenic compression from adipose tissue in the spinal canal. The question arises whether patients with morbid obesity have higher volumes of epidural adipose tissue (EAT) in their lumbar spinal canal compared with patients with a normal weight, and to what extent this decreases after bariatric surgery. METHODS In this explorative study the lumbar EAT volume was assessed in 25 patients with morbid obesity (body mass index [BMI] >40) using available lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) prior to their bariatric surgery. An age- and sex-matched control group (n = 25) of patients with a normal weight (BMI 20-25) was used for comparison. Participants from the obesity group underwent a postoperative control MRI. RESULTS The mean volume of EAT per MRI slice of the group of patients with obesity was significantly higher than for the group of patients with normal weight (mean: 83.3 ± 30.7 mm3 vs. mean 56.5 ± 25 mm3; P < 0.001). Fifteen participants with obesity (15 of 25) agreed to undergo a follow-up MRI. There was a significant decrease in EAT volume per MRI slice for these 15 participants (mean 82 ± 25.5 mm3 vs. 46 ± 20.0 mm3; P < 0.001) over time up to 3.6 (range: 1.2-6.0) years after bariatric surgery. CONCLUSIONS Patients with obesity have significantly larger volumes of EAT in comparison with patients with normal weight. After bariatric surgery, a significant weight loss coincided with a significant volumetric reduction of this adipose tissue in the spinal canal. Future prospective studies in patients with symptomatic SEL may elucidate whether decreases in EAT volume influence concurrent neurogenic claudication symptoms.
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Zhang B, Yuan H, Hu L, Saad M. Obesity is a risk factor for epidural lipomatosis: a meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong) 2021; 29:23094990211027391. [PMID: 34323151 DOI: 10.1177/23094990211027391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this meta-analysis was to summarize the evidence of associations between obesity factors and spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) and to evaluate the strength and validity of these associations. METHODS Electronic databases such as Wiley Online Library, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library were searched and manual retrieval of references, the time limit was from the establishment of the database to May 2020. Methodological quality evaluations of the included studies were assessed using the bias risk assessment tool recommended by the Cochrane Guidelines. The RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. RESULTS Finally, seven studies were included for meta-analysis, all of which were observational studies with mixed bias risk. These studies involved 807 patients, with an average age of 64 to 73.6 years, and 59.4 percent of the participants were male. The sample sizes for the included studies ranged from 28 to 288. The results of meta-analysis showed that high body mass index (BMI) was one of the factors affecting SEL (P < 0.01, MD 1.37, 95% CI [0.81, 1.92]). All reviews had a high risk of bias, and the most common source of bias was that there was no strict unified case diagnosis standard between researches, and some studies (four items) did not clearly describe the confounders that they controlled. CONCLUSIONS We suggest that physicians should consider high BMI as a factor leading to SEL, and to control body weight actively should be considered as the preferred treatment strategy before surgical intervention is conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi Zhang
- Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China.,Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Haifeng Yuan
- Department of Spine Orthopedics, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China
| | - Lihong Hu
- Department of Spine Orthopedics, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China
| | - Muhammad Saad
- Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, People's Republic of China
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Spinnato P, Barakat M, Lotrecchiano L, Giusti D, Filonzi G, Spinelli D, Pipola V, Moio A, Tetta C, Ponti F. MRI Features and Clinical Significance of Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis: All You Should Know. Curr Med Imaging 2021; 18:208-215. [PMID: 34429050 DOI: 10.2174/1573405617666210824111305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is defined as the abnormal accumulation of unencapsulated adipose tissue in the spinal epidural space. SEL can be asymptomatic or can cause a wide range of symptoms, the most common of which is neurogenic claudication. Several other neurological manifestations may also occur, above all myelopathy and radicular symptoms. The spinal level most frequently involved in patients with SEL is the lumbar one, followed by the thoracic one. Imaging plays a key role in disease assessment. MRI is considered the most effective and sensitive modality for diagnosing and staging SEL. Anyway, also CT scan can diagnose SEL. The diagnosis may be incidental (in mild-moderate disease) or may be taken into account in cases with neurological symptoms (in moderate-severe disease). There are some recognized risk factors for SEL, the most common of which are exogenous steroid use and obesity. Recent studies have found an association between SEL and obesity, hyperlipidemia and liver fat deposition. As a matter of fact, SEL can be considered the spinal hallmark of metabolic syndrome. Risk factors control represents the initial treatment strategy in patients with SEL (e.g. weight loss, steroid therapy suspension). Surgical decompression may be required when conservative treatment fails or when the patient develops acute/severe neurological symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Spinnato
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
| | - Massimo Barakat
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
| | - Ludovica Lotrecchiano
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
| | - Davide Giusti
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
| | | | - Daniele Spinelli
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
| | - Valerio Pipola
- Department of Oncologic and Degenerative Spine Surgery, IRCCS, Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
| | - Antonio Moio
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
| | - Cecilia Tetta
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
| | - Federico Ponti
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna. Italy
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Fujita N. Lumbar Spinal Canal Stenosis from the Perspective of Locomotive Syndrome and Metabolic Syndrome: A Narrative Review. Spine Surg Relat Res 2020; 5:61-67. [PMID: 33842711 PMCID: PMC8026207 DOI: 10.22603/ssrr.2020-0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis (LSS) have impaired activities of daily living because of pain or motor paralysis, but no effective preventive treatment is currently available. The number of patients with LSS is predicted to continually increase as the average age of the global population increases. To provide a conceptual framework for improving healthy life expectancy, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association introduced the concept of locomotive syndrome, to which LSS is related. Ours and other studies have shown that LSS exacerbates locomotive syndrome and that surgical treatment is one method for improving it. Furthermore, we propose that the two-step test, a locomotive syndrome risk test, is effective for assessing the risk for falls and severity of LSS. Meanwhile, lumbar spinal epidural lipomatosis (LSEL), which is a manifestation of LSS, has been shown to be related to metabolic syndrome. Previous studies have suggested that the whole LSS can be also associated with metabolic syndrome. Although locomotive syndrome is very different from metabolic syndrome, which involves lipid metabolism, these two syndromes overlap, such as in LSS. Conducting research on LSS from the perspectives of both locomotive syndrome and metabolic syndrome may lead to novel methods for prevention and treatment of LSS and, conversely, may yield clues for resolving symptoms of the two syndromes. This review provides an overview of LSS from the perspective of locomotive syndrome and metabolic syndrome, along with findings from our research group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuyuki Fujita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Aichi, Japan
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Negative impact of spinal epidural lipomatosis on the surgical outcome of posterior lumbar spinous-splitting decompression surgery: a multicenter retrospective study. Spine J 2019; 19:1977-1985. [PMID: 31254650 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2019.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) results from excess lumbar epidural fat (EF) accumulation that compresses the cauda equina or nerve roots. Guidelines for the therapeutic management of SEL are not currently available. PURPOSE To elucidate the efficacy of lumbar decompression surgery in SEL. STUDY DESIGN Multicenter retrospective study. PATIENT SAMPLE A total of 288 consecutive patients who underwent posterior lumbar spinous-splitting decompression surgery for lumbar spinal canal stenosis and followed up greater than 2 years at participating institutions were retrospectively reviewed. OUTCOME MEASURES Japanese Orthopedic Association Back Pain Evaluation Questionnaire (JOABPEQ) and Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RDQ). METHODS Participants were divided into two groups according to the ratio of EF to anteroposterior diameter of the spinal canal (EF/SC-L) at the spinal level with maximum dural tube compression. Patients with EF/SC-L of ≥0.6 and <0.6 were defined as those with SEL and non-SEL, respectively. We assessed whether surgical treatment was "effective" or "not effective" using the JOABPEQ based on the following: an increase of ≥20 points in the postoperative score compared with the preoperative score, or a preoperative score <90 with a postoperative score ≥90 points. We constructed a multiple Poisson regression model by adjusting for confounding factors, and determined estimated relative risk (RR) for "not effective" with surgical treatment using the JOABPEQ. Additionally, we selected age-, sex-, BMI-, and decompression levels-matched patients with non-SEL and compared the frequency of "not effective" between SEL patients (n=60) and non-SEL patients (n=60). RESULTS Analysis using the RDQ and JOABPEQ showed that the 1- and 2-year postoperative scores were significantly better than the preoperative scores in the both groups. Multivariable Poisson regression analysis demonstrated that SEL was significantly associated with "not effective" for decompression surgery in the 1-year postoperative outcomes of walking ability ([RR] 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0-2.2) and social life (RR 1.3, 95% CI 1.0-1.8) and the 2-year postoperative outcomes of walking ability (RR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.3). Matching analysis showed that SEL was significantly associated with "not effective" with lumbar decompression surgery in the 2-year postoperative outcomes of walking ability (p=.02). CONCLUSIONS Patients with SEL exhibited significant improvements in surgical outcomes at 1 and 2 years postoperatively. However, compared with the non-SEL group, the efficacy of posterior lumbar spinous-splitting decompression surgery was worse in the SEL group, especially for walking ability. These results indicate that EF accumulation should be considered when planning treatment for patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis and estimating the efficacy of lumbar decompression surgery.
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Ishihara S, Fujita N, Azuma K, Michikawa T, Yagi M, Tsuji T, Takayama M, Matsumoto H, Nakamura M, Matsumoto M, Watanabe K. Spinal epidural lipomatosis is a previously unrecognized manifestation of metabolic syndrome. Spine J 2019; 19:493-500. [PMID: 30077045 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2018.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a condition in which excess lumbar epidural fat (EF) deposition often leads to compression of the cauda equina or nerve root. Although SEL is often observed in obese adults, no systematic research investigating the potential association between SEL and metabolic syndrome has been conducted. PURPOSE To elucidate potential association between SEL and metabolic syndrome. STUDY DESIGN An observational study used data of a medical checkup. PATIENT SAMPLE We retrospectively reviewed data from consecutive subjects undergoing medical checkups. A total of 324 subjects (174 men and 150 women) were enrolled in this study. OUTCOME MEASURES The correlation of EF accumulation with demographic data and metabolic-related factors was evaluated. METHODS The degree of EF accumulation was evaluated based on the axial views of lumbar magnetic resonance imaging. Visceral and subcutaneous fat areas were measured at the navel level using abdominal computed tomography. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed according to the criteria of the Japanese Society of Internal Medicine. The correlation of SEL with metabolic syndrome and metabolic-related conditions was statistically evaluated. RESULTS The degree of EF accumulation demonstrated a significant correlation to body mass index, abdominal circumference, and visceral fat area. However, age, body fat percentage, and subcutaneous fat area showed no correlation with the degree of EF accumulation. Logistic regression analysis revealed that metabolic syndrome (odds ratio [OR]=3.8, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.5-9.6) was significantly associated with SEL. Among the diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome, visceral fat area ≥100 cm2 (OR=4.8, 95% CI=1.5-15.3) and hypertension (OR=3.5, 95% CI=1.1-11.8) were observed to be independently associated with SEL. CONCLUSION This is the first study to demonstrate that metabolic syndrome is associated with SEL in a relatively large, unbiased population. Our data suggest that metabolic-related conditions are potentially related to EF deposition and that SEL could be a previously unrecognized manifestation of metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinichi Ishihara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare (IUHW), Mita Hospital, 1-4-3 Mita, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8329, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Fujita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
| | - Koichiro Azuma
- Institute for Integrated Sports Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Takehiro Michikawa
- Environmental Epidemiology Section, Centre for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Yagi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Takashi Tsuji
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan
| | - Michiyo Takayama
- Center for Preventive Medicine, Keio University Hospital, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hideo Matsumoto
- Institute for Integrated Sports Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Masaya Nakamura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Morio Matsumoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kota Watanabe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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Park SK, Han JM, Lee K, Cho WJ, Oh JH, Choi YS. The Clinical Characteristics of Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis in the Lumbar Spine. Anesth Pain Med 2018; 8:e83069. [PMID: 30538942 PMCID: PMC6252047 DOI: 10.5812/aapm.83069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a rare disease, defined as diffuse hypertrophy of unencapsulated adipose tissue causing spinal canal compression and progressive neurologic deficits. However, there are few studies on SEL in Korea. Objectives The purpose of this study was to describe the prevalence and clinical characteristics of SEL in Korea. Methods Of the 3702 symptomatic patients (1575 males and 2127 females) who underwent lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the age of 20 years or older from January 2014 to December 2016, 42 patients (27 males and 15 females) diagnosed with SEL were selected. Medical records and telephone counseling were used to document sex, age, height, weight, clinical symptoms, coexistent spinal disease, accompanying diseases, and alcoholism and smoking status. One radiologist classified the severity of epidural lipomatosis into three grades from I to III according to Borre et al. We obtained four linear measurements at the axial plane parallel based in the narrowest on MRI image. Results The incidence of SEL in the lumbar spine was 1.1%, which was 1.71% in men and 0.7% in women. The mean age was 69.4 ± 10.9 years and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.4 ± 3.5 kg/m2. The most common clinical symptoms were lower back pain and radiating leg pain (26 patients, 61.9%). The level of affected SEL was found to be most prevalent at L5 - S1 (21 patients, 50%). Concomitant diseases were hypertension (26 patients, 61.9%) and diabetes (12 patients, 28.5%). The most common SEL grade was type III (21 patients, 50%), followed by types II (17 patients, 40.4%) and I (4 patients, 9.5%). Conclusions Lumbar spine MRI at one hospital showed that the incidence of symptomatic SEL was 1.1%; SEL is common at the L5-S1 level and in male patients, and severity grade is often severe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Kyung Park
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Jeju National School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
- Corresponding Author: Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Jeju National School of Medicine, Aran 13gil 15, Jeju-si 63241, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Korea. Tel: +82-647172025, E-mail:
| | - Ji Min Han
- Jeju National School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Keumo Lee
- Jeju National School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Woo Jin Cho
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Jeju National School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Ji Hun Oh
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Jeju National School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Yun Suk Choi
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Jeju National School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
- Corresponding Author: Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Jeju National School of Medicine, Aran 13gil 15, Jeju-si 63241, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Korea. Tel: +82-647172025,
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Management of idiopathic spinal epidural lipomatosis: a case report and review of the literature. Childs Nerv Syst 2018; 34:757-763. [PMID: 29273822 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-017-3706-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a rare pathologic growth of histologically normal unencapsulated adipose tissue in the epidural space. Although rare, SEL can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots causing myelopathy or radiculopathy. While SEL has been associated with long-term exposure to endogenous or exogenous steroids and obesity, idiopathic forms of SEL are much rarer. CASE REPORT In this report, we present the first case of SEL isolated to the cervical region compressing the spinal cord in a healthy, non-obese, preadolescent patient. CONCLUSION Idiopathic SEL in the pediatric population is a rare entity. This is the first case of epidural lipomatosis isolated to the cervical region in an adult or child patient. In refractory, symptomatic cases of idiopathic SEL, surgical decompression is often required.
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