Epidural venous enlargements presenting with intractable lower back pain and sciatica in a patient with absence of the infrarenal inferior vena cava and bilateral deep venous thrombosis

Extravertebral low back pain: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common reasons for consultation in general practice. Currently, LBP is categorised into specific and non-specific causes. However, extravertebral causes, such as abdominal aortic aneurysm or pancreatitis, are not being considered.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed across MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane library, complemented by a handsearch. Studies conducted between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2020, where LBP was the main symptom, were included.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 6040 studies, from which duplicates were removed, leaving 4105 studies for title and abstract screening. Subsequently, 265 publications were selected for inclusion, with an additional 197 publications identified through the handsearch. The majority of the studies were case reports and case series, predominantly originating from specialised care settings. A clear distinction between vertebral or rare causes of LBP was not always possible. A range of diseases were identified as potential extravertebral causes of LBP, encompassing gynaecological, urological, vascular, systemic, and gastrointestinal diseases. Notably, guidelines exhibited inconsistencies in addressing extravertebral causes.

DISCUSSION

Prior to this review, there has been no systematic investigation into extravertebral causes of LBP. Although these causes are rare, the absence of robust and reliable epidemiological data hinders a comprehensive understanding, as well as the lack of standardised protocols, which contributes to a lack of accurate description of indicative symptoms. While there are certain disease-specific characteristics, such as non-mechanical or cyclical LBP, and atypical accompanying symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, or leg swelling, that may suggest extravertebral causes, it is important to recognise that these features are not universally present in every patient.

CONCLUSION

The differential diagnosis of extravertebral LBP is extensive with relatively low prevalence rates dependent on the clinical setting. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for extravertebral aetiologies, especially in patients presenting with atypical accompanying symptoms.

Comprehensive insights into lumbar epidural varicose veins: Three clinical cases and surgical strategies

Lumbar epidural varicose veins (LEVs) present a challenging clinical scenario with limited literature. This series addresses the scarcity of comprehensive understanding, emphasizing the need for nuanced exploration. Varied prevalence estimates and clinical oversights underscore the urgency for a standardized approach to surgical interventions. We present three diverse clinical cases: (1) segmental varicose veins causing radicular pain, (2) local varicosities leading to lower paraparesis, and (3) widespread varicose veins with prolonged symptoms. Surgical tactics involved targeted coagulation, crossing of veins, and preservation of collateral blood flow. Advanced imaging techniques guided interventions. Tailoring interventions based on varicose vein subtype, preserving collateral flow, and adopting a staged postoperative approach contribute to successful outcomes. This series provides valuable insights into LEV management, emphasizing the significance of advanced imaging in diagnosis and surgical planning.

Lumbar epidural vein thrombosis mimicking disc herniation: A report of 3 cases

Epidural vein thrombosis is a rare cause of lumbosciatica than can clinically and radiologically mimic other causes of nerve root compression such as disc herniation. We describe 3 unusual cases of spinal epidural plexus vein thrombosis illustrating the difficulty in preoperative diagnosis of this entity. Misinterpretation of imaging findings can lead to an erroneous diagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Knowledge of certain radiologic findings will increase the likelihood of recognizing epidural vein thrombosis.

Systematic review of inferior vena cava atresia

OBJECTIVE

Inferior vena cava (IVC) atresia is a rare venous anomaly characterized by absence of the IVC. It has been associated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other congenital anomalies. The aim of the present study is to provide a comprehensive summary of the literature on IVC atresia and discuss the presentation and outcomes of patients with IVC atresia.

METHODS

A systematic review of the English literature up to April 2020 was performed. The presentations and treatments reported were noted and compared between the two sexes. The IVC atresia cases were further stratified into isolated IVC atresia and IVC atresia associated with other congenital anomalies.

RESULTS

A total of 412 abstracts were screened, with 178 reports included. A total of 376 patients were analyzed. Overall, males seem to be more affected than females, with a ratio of almost 2:1 (male, 227 [64.1%]; vs female, 127 [35.8%]). However, females were more likely to have congenital IVC atresia compared with males (46.1% vs 21.3%; P < .001). The mean age at presentation was 27.9 ± 18.0 years (range, 0-77 years), with no differences between the sexes. Most patients with IVC atresia presented with DVT (n = 242 of 376; 64.3%), with the iliac veins most often affected (n = 159 of 242; 65.7%). No difference was found in the reported proportion of patients presenting with DVT between the two sexes. The symptom presentation was similar, with leg pain and swelling the most common in both sexes. The patients were treated either medically with anticoagulation or surgically (open or endovascular). No mortality was reported with isolated IVC atresia in either treatment group. However, the mortality of patients with IVC atresia associated with other congenital anomalies was 11.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

IVC atresia is more common in males but seems to have a predilection for females in the setting of other congenital anomalies. Most patients present with leg pain and swelling related to the development of DVT. Open and endovascular surgical interventions to treat IVC atresia have been reported in 18.3% of patients reviewed, with acceptable mid-term results in terms of patency and symptomatic relief.

Venous Thromboembolism in a Patient with Interrupted Inferior Vena Cava and Compressed Azygos Continuation: A Case Report and Review of Literature

We report an unusual case of a 40-year-old male patient who experienced painful swelling of the left lower limb that persisted for 1 week. Imaging modalities not only confirmed the diagnosis of acute iliofemoral venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (PE), but also an incidental finding of interrupted inferior vena cava (IVC). This congenital anomaly is uncommon but rarely associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE). The azygos continuation was compressed by the descending aorta against the 11^th thoracic vertebrae, which was identified as the cause of VTE. He was treated successfully with anticoagulation and compression therapy. The patient was discharged with lifelong oral Rivaroxaban and remained asymptomatic. In the literature, only 9 cases of interrupted IVC-associated PE were identified but none was due to significant venous compression.

Lower Limb Weakness due to Spinal Venous Congestion in Chronic Inferior Vena Cava Occlusion: A Case Report

CASE REPORT

A 31 year-old male presented with a long history of reduced sensation and motor function in his lower limbs upon waking every morning, lasting 30-50 minutes during which he was unable to ambulate. He was involved in a severe road traffic accident as a child, and was born prematurely requiring prolonged neonatal hospitalisation. Both duplex ultrasonography and magnetic resonance venography identified an occlusion of the IVC, with patent common femoral and iliac veins draining into large spinal collaterals. No other cause was identified for his symptoms. After appropriate multidisciplinary team discussion and patient counselling, the patient proceeded to have endovenous recanalization of his IVC and common iliac veins with dedicated venous stents. Post-operatively, the patient reported an immediate resolution of neurological symptoms, with an improvement in quality of life questionnaire scores and with stent patency at 9-month follow up.

CONCLUSION

IVC occlusion with symptomatic spinal venous congestion is a rare condition which may be successfully treated with endovascular iliocaval recanalization, although long-term outcomes of this treatment are still unknown.

Role of Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Recanalization in Patients with Back Pain, Secondary to IVC Obstruction in Budd-Chiari Syndrome

PURPOSE

To study the prevalence of back pain in patients of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) with inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction, and to evaluate the role of IVC recanalization in resolution of back pain.

METHODS

All patients with BCS and IVC obstruction who underwent IVC recanalization between January 2018 and October 2022 were included. Patients with degenerative spine disease or other identifiable causes for back pain were excluded; remaining patients were assessed for the presence of back pain. In patients with back pain, pain relief was assessed at 24 h following IVC recanalization.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients with BCS and IVC occlusion were identified, of which six with degenerative spine diseases were excluded. Of the remaining 52 patients, 34 (65.4%) had back pain, with pain score between 3 and 9. Engorged epidural venous plexus on preprocedural imaging (p = 0.002), and degree of luminal narrowing (p = 0.021) had a significant association with back pain. Twenty-nine of thirty-four patients (85.3%) with back pain had pain relief immediately following IVC recanalization, more so in patients with engorged epidural venous plexus on preprocedural imaging (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Back pain is one of the under-reported symptoms of IVC obstruction in BCS. IVC recanalization by IVC angioplasty with or without stenting relieves back pain due to the decompression of engorged epidural veins.

A unique case of hypoplastic inferior vena cava leading to bilateral iliofemoral venous outflow obstruction and review of literature

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common cardiovascular disease associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality whereas it induces substantial health care costs and increased use of resources. The current standard of treatment for acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is anticoagulation, although revascularization can be considered in younger patients with severe symptoms and extensive thrombus burden to prevent long-term sequalae of VTE (eg, recurrent DVTs, post-thrombotic syndrome post-pulmonary embolism syndrome, and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension). A rare cause of VTE is anomalous development of the inferior vena cava (IVC) and can challenge endovascular revascularization. This case report describes a case of hypoplastic supra hepatic IVC, associated with distal IVC occlusion and bilateral lower extremity DVTs treated successfully with suction thrombectomy and on table only thrombolysis, avoiding the higher risk for major bleeding, intensive care unit admission and prolonged hospitalization associated with prolonged tissue plasminogen activator infusion.

Venous congestion as a central mechanism of radiculopathies

Compression of roots/nerves can disrupt some of their functions, but does not necessarily cause pain. This is illustrated by the frequency of nearly asymptomatic spinal stenosis or disc herniations. In fact, pain of radiculopathies (and nerve entrapments) may mostly be the consequence of intraneural oedema induced by microscopical venous stasis around roots/spinal ganglia (or nerves) not or poorly shown by imaging. This narrative review first lists arguments for a role of congestion of vasa-nervorum in the pathophysiology of radiculopathies, including those induced by disc herniation and spinal stenosis, but also other sources of overpressures in spinal venous plexuses (pregnancy, vena cava atresia and thrombosis, portal hypertension, epidural varices, arterio-venous fistula, vertebral hemangioma or hemangioblastoma). It also details sources of venous congestion around nerves outside the spine, from pelvis (May-Thurner syndrome, Nut-cracker syndrome) to buttocks (superior and inferior gluteal veins), and even thighs and legs. A better recognition of a preeminent role of venous congestion in radiculopathies, plexopathies, and nerve entrapments, should have major consequences: (i) discard the dogma that compression is mandatory to induce root/nerve suffering, since root/nerve adherences in two locations can impair blood flow in vasa-nervorum through root/nerve stretching; (ii) implementation of sensitive techniques to visualise impingement of blood flow around or within roots and nerves; (iii) better prevention of roots/nerves adherence, or arachnoiditis induced by extravascular fibrin deposition secondary to venous stasis.; (iv) optimizing treatments dampening clot formation and/or extravascular fibrin leakage in the intradural/peridural spaces, or around roots/nerves, like guided injection of tissue plasminogen activator.

Gastric balloon: A rare cause of lumbar radiculopathy

Background:

Factors that are known to cause lumbar epidural venous plexus (EVP) engorgement include inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction, portal hypertension, vascular agenesis, morbid obesity, and/or hypercoagulable states. Here, we present a 32-year-old female admitted with the new onset of lumbar radiculopathy attributed to a gastric balloon causing compression of the IVC and engorgement of the EVP.

Case Description:

A 32-year-old female was admitted with a left L5 radiculopathy. She had a history of morbid obesity and had undergone intragastric balloon insertion 4 months ago. The abdominal/pelvic CT documented an intragastric balloon producing a voluminous gastric mass with resultant compression of the IVC. The lumbar MRI showed the resultant marked multilevel engorgement of the lumbar EVP. Here, following balloon removal, the patient was immediately symptom free and remained asymptomatic over the next postoperative year.

Conclusion:

An intragastric balloon can produce a voluminous gastric mass that can result in IVC occlusion and engorgement of the EVP, leading to lumbar radiculopathy. Removal of the balloon results in immediate and permanent resolution of the compressive symptoms.

Cauda equina syndrome secondary to portal vein thrombosis: case report of favorable outcome with conservative treatment

Epidural varicosis is a rare though well-known cause of cauda equina syndrome (CES). Although inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction is the most common finding in such cases, portal vein hypertension can lead to epidural venous plexus engorgement by means of lumbar portocaval shunt activation.

A 40-year-old woman presented with right-sided sciatica, which progressed to right foot drop and a 3-day history of vesical tenesmus and fecal retention. She was initially diagnosed with L4–5 lumbar disc protrusion. However, contrast-enhanced lumbar MRI scan showed the presence of epidural varices in the L3–S1 tract. Given the absence of vascular anomalies amenable to resection, etiological conservative treatment was addressed. Therefore, a complete diagnostic workup was performed and revealed deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and portal vein thrombosis. Oral anticoagulant therapy was initiated and prompt resolution of CES was observed. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of CES secondary to epidural varicosis in the setting of acute portal vein thrombosis and extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO). In cases of epidural varicosis, conservative etiological treatment is the most appropriate choice as CES may be the epiphenomenon of underlying systemic pathophysiological processes.

Cauda equina syndrome secondary to portal vein thrombosis: case report of favorable outcome with conservative treatment

Epidural varicosis is a rare though well-known cause of cauda equina syndrome (CES). Although inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction is the most common finding in such cases, portal vein hypertension can lead to epidural venous plexus engorgement by means of lumbar portocaval shunt activation.A 40-year-old woman presented with right-sided sciatica, which progressed to right foot drop and a 3-day history of vesical tenesmus and fecal retention. She was initially diagnosed with L4-5 lumbar disc protrusion. However, contrast-enhanced lumbar MRI scan showed the presence of epidural varices in the L3-S1 tract. Given the absence of vascular anomalies amenable to resection, etiological conservative treatment was addressed. Therefore, a complete diagnostic workup was performed and revealed deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and portal vein thrombosis. Oral anticoagulant therapy was initiated and prompt resolution of CES was observed. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of CES secondary to epidural varicosis in the setting of acute portal vein thrombosis and extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO). In cases of epidural varicosis, conservative etiological treatment is the most appropriate choice as CES may be the epiphenomenon of underlying systemic pathophysiological processes.

Revisiting the Vertebral Venous Plexus-A Comprehensive Review of the Literature

The venous drainage of the vertebral and paravertebral regions is important for a better understanding of hematogenous disease spread. Moreover, the spine surgeon must be well acquainted with this anatomy to minimize intraoperative and postoperative complications. A comprehensive review of the vertebral venous plexus (Batson plexus) was performed with a concentration on the clinical and surgical correlations of this venous network.

Dilated Epidural Venous Plexus Causing Radiculopathy: A Report of 2 Cases and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

A dilated epidural venous plexus (DEVP) is a rare cause of radiculopathy, back pain, cauda equina syndrome, and other neurological symptoms. This vascular mass can be secondary to inferior vena cava obstruction, portal hypertension, vascular agenesis, and hypercoagulable states. Although rare, DEVP should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients who present with lumbar radiculopathy.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We present 2 cases involving patients with lumbar DEVP as well as a literature review of the role of hypercoagulability, vascular anatomy, and inferior vena cava thrombosis in the development of DEVP. The first patient had a history of recurrent deep vein thrombosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and antiphospholipid syndrome. The diagnosis of DEVP was determined after intraoperative biopsy. The patient reported symptom resolution at her 6-month postoperative appointment. The second patient developed DEVP associated with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome. She presented with back pain and leg weakness, and DEVP was diagnosed via magnetic resonance imaging. A neurosurgeon is currently following the patient. We believe this is the first case of Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome associated with DEVP.

CONCLUSIONS

If a patient presents with an enhancing epidural lesion on magnetic resonance imaging and neurological symptoms, DEVP should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Additionally, a search for inferior vena cava thrombosis should be performed as well as risk factors for venous hypertension and hypercoagulable states.

Central venous catheters misplaced in paraspinal veins: A systematic literature review based on case reports

BACKGROUND

Paraspinal vein misplacement is an uncommon complication of central venous catheterization via lower extremities, most of which have been reported in case reports.

AIM

To determine the clinical characteristics of paraspinal vein misplacement.

DESIGN

This was a systematic review.

METHODS

A systematic literature search in the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was performed from their inception to 18 June 2019. Case reports and small case series describing central venous catheter misplacement in the paraspinal vein were included. Data on the catheterization procedure, catheter tip position, complications, and radiographic features of misplacement were extracted.

RESULTS

Thirty studies with a total of 36 patients were included. The ascending lumbar vein accounted for the majority of misplacements (n = 30), followed by the lumbar vein (n = 4), iliolumbar vein (n = 1), and vertebral venous plexus (n = 1). Six patients had eventful catheterization procedures. Twenty-six patients experienced misplacement-induced complications, of whom seven died. The most common complications included cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities, neurological symptoms, and deteriorated respiration. Among the entire case cohort, the onset of complications was the primary sign that alerted medical staff to misplacement (n = 23). The typical radiographic characteristics were posterior deviation of the catheter course overlapping with the spine on lateral X-rays and a bend, kink, or hump in the catheter course on anteroposterior X-rays at the L4 to L5 levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Nurses should be aware of this particular complication if a patient who has undergone catheterization via a lower extremity presents deterioration of neurological function and respiration.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Lateral X-ray radiography is an effective method to verify misplacement and is recommended as routine practice during catheterization via lower extremities.

Severe lumbar radiculopathy with epidural venous plexus engorgement in a morbidly obese pediatric patient: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Engorgement of the epidural venous plexus (EVP) is a rare cause of nerve root impingement. Dilated epidural veins cause compression of the thecal sac and spinal nerve roots, leading to lumbar radiculopathy.

PATIENT CONCERNS

Here we describe a case of severe lumbar radiculopathy in a 15-year-old morbidly obese boy.

DIAGNOSIS

Enhanced lumbar magnetic resonance imaging revealed left sided L1-L2 disc protrusion and engorgement of the lumbar EVP, resulting in narrowing of the thecal sac in the entire lumbar spine. There was no evidence of an intra-abdominal mass, thrombosis of the inferior vena cava, or vascular malformation.

INTERVENTIONS

A caudal epidural block was administered under fluoroscopic guidance. The patient reported a 30% reduction in pain intensity for just 1 day.

OUTCOMES

The patient has been followed up for 2 years. He continues to take medication, including morphine sulfate 15 mg, gabapentin 300 mg, and oxycodone 20 mg per day. He is on a diet with exercise for weight reduction.

CONCLUSION

An engorged EVP should be considered in the differential diagnosis of radiculopathy in morbidly obese patients.

[Deep venous thrombosis caused by congenital inferior vena cava agenesis]

Congenital agenesis of the inferior vena cava, although rare, is found preferentially in young patients with proximal deep venous thrombosis. Exact diagnosis can be made thanks to enhanced computed tomography scan and/or magnetic resonance imaging, while Doppler ultrasonography is insufficient to establish an inferior vena cava malformation. A consensus has not yet been established for the treatment but lifelong anticoagulation with elastic stocking support to prevent post-thrombotic syndrome is commonly considered in most cases. We report a case of an unprovoked deep venous thrombosis caused by a congenital agenesis of the inferior vena cava localized to the infrarenal segment, in a 24-year-old man. An anticoagulation with low molecular weight heparin was started and prolonged oral anticoagulation was prescribed. In the absence of the usual thrombotic risk factors, the presence of an inferior vena cava anomaly should be considered.

Anomalous development of the inferior vena cava: Case reports of agenesis and hypoplasia

We reported the cases of two adult male patients who were admitted to our emergency room with abdominal pain and dyspnea caused by gallstones and pulmonary embolism respectively. During the radiological investigations, as collateral findings, we found two anomalous development of the inferior vena cava. These conditions affect about 4% of population and, although asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic, are associated with thrombotic manifestations as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. The prompt recognition of these anomalies is necessary in order to prevent the complications associated with these conditions and to set the best therapy for patients.

Epidural venous plexus engorgement due to inferior vena cava thrombosis resulting in cauda equina syndrome: Case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Epidural venous plexus congestion at L5-S1 due to inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis led to an acute cauda equina syndrome (CES). Laminectomy to rule out an epidural abscess, allowing for resection of the dilated veins, led to immediate symptom resolution.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 47-year-old male presented with acute urinary retention and left greater than right lower extremity paresis of 2 weeks duration. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a contrast-enhancing space-occupying anterior epidural L5-S1 level lesion resulting in cauda equina compression. As the patient was septic, he underwent an emergency laminectomy for a presumed epidural abscess. Intraoperative findings, however, documented a markedly dilated epidural venous plexus secondary to a newly diagnosed IVC thrombus. One day postoperatively, the patient was symptom-free and neurologically intact.

CONCLUSIONS

Here we report a patient who uniquely presented with a CES characterized by acute paraparesis. This was attributed to a massively engorged anterior lumbar epidural venous plexus attributed to newly diagnosed IVC thrombus.

Sciatic Neuralgia Caused by May-Thurner Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Sciatic neuralgia (SN) is a type of pain commonly associated with lumbosacral radiculopathy. May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) is a disease characterized by venous congestion in the left common iliac vein (LCIV) due to right common iliac artery compression. A case of MTS with SN as the first presenting symptom is described.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 53-year-old man gradually developed left SN; however, radiologic examination showed no causal findings. Conservative medical treatment did not result in satisfactory pain relief. During the follow-up period, edema and brownish skin pigmentation were noted on the left crural region. Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging of lumbar spine revealed vascular enlargement around the spine and compression of the LCIV by the right common iliac artery. Furthermore, the left S1 nerve root was compressed by enlarged veins, which was thought to be the cause of the left S1 radiculopathy and SN. After the stenosed part of the LCIV was expanded, the pain and edema in the left leg disappeared.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report of SN associated with MTS. MTS should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses of SN. Thus, symptoms such as pain, edema, and skin hyperpigmentation on the left leg should be closely noted.

Lumbar Epidural Varix Causing Radicular Pain: A Case Report and Differential Diagnosis of Lumbar Cystic Lesions

Lumbar epidural varices are a rare cause of radicular pain mimicking lumbar disc herniation or other cyst-like masses including sequestrated disc herniation, facet joint synovial cyst, or perineural cyst. We report a case of a 36-year-old woman presenting with lumbar radicular pain caused by a lumbar epidural varix. Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a cystic lesion in the ventral epidural space posterior to the right L4 body. Surgery was conducted and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of an epidural varix. Lumbar epidural varices and other lumbar cystic lesions can commonly cause radicular pain. Physicians will benefit from increased awareness of epidural varices as a cause of lumbosacral radicular pain and the associated radiologic findings supporting differential diagnosis. In particular, careful interpretation of MRI scans may help ensure proper diagnosis of an epidural varix versus other cystic lesions. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: V.

Vertebral venous system abnormalities identified with magnetic resonance imaging in sighthounds

In humans, abnormalities of the vertebral venous system are considered rare but significant causes of radiculopathy and myelopathy. Published information on abnormalities of the canine vertebral venous system is currently lacking. Aims of this retrospective descriptive study were to characterize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) abnormalities of the vertebral venous system in a population of sighthounds, report prevalence of vertebral venous system abnormalities within that population and explore possible clinical significance. Our hospital database was searched over the period of 2002-2013 for sighthounds with MRI studies of the vertebral column. Medical records and MRI studies for included dogs were retrieved and findings were recorded by a single observer. A total of 92 sighthounds were sampled. Eleven cases (prevalence 12%) showed abnormal enlargement of the internal vertebral venous plexus (10/11 unilaterally, 1/11 bilaterally), external vertebral venous plexus (7/11 cases unilaterally), and/or intervertebral veins (8/11 unilaterally, 2/11 bilaterally, and 1/11 unilaterally and bilaterally at different sites). The majority of the abnormalities were right sided and the most common location for abnormalities was C6/7. Of the 11 cases, nine did not have a definitive diagnosis. Seven of those nine cases had an abnormality in a neuroanatomical localization that could wholly or partly explain the clinical signs. Findings indicated that, while the prevalence of vertebral venous system abnormalities was low in this sample of sighthounds, the majority of dogs with these abnormalities had clinical signs that matched the location of the abnormalities. Further prospective research is needed to investigate potential underlying aetiologies for vertebral venous system abnormalities in dogs and clarify their clinical significance.

Bilateral Vertebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis Causing Cervical Spinal Cord Compression in a Dog

A 10-year-old male neutered mixed breed dog was evaluated for cervical hyperesthesia and tetraparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and cervical spinal cord identified an extradural compressive lesion over the body of C2 caused by marked dilation of the vertebral venous sinuses. Following intravenous contrast administration both vertebral sinuses had heterogeneous contrast enhancement consistent with incomplete thrombi formation. An abdominal ultrasound also showed a distal aortic thrombus. A definitive cause for the thrombi formation was not identified, but the patient had several predisposing factors which may have contributed. The patient was treated with a combination of warfarin, clopidogrel, and enoxaparin as well as analgesics. Within 48 h of initiation of warfarin therapy, the tetraparesis and hyperesthesia were markedly improved. Repeat abdominal ultrasound 3 weeks after discharge showed reduction in size of aortic thrombus. Neurologic function remained normal for 6 weeks following initiation of treatment. Seventy-four days following initial diagnosis the patient rapidly declined and passed away at home. Necropsy was declined. This is the first report of vertebral venous sinus enlargement leading to spinal cord compression and tetraparesis in a dog. Additionally, warfarin in combination with clopidogrel and enoxaparin appeared to be a safe and effective treatment for the suspected thrombi reported in this case. Vertebral sinus enlargement secondary to thrombi should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with tetraparesis and cervical hyperesthesia.

Detection of a lumbar foraminal venous varix by Color Doppler Ultrasound

Ultrasonography is currently widely used in the rheumatology practice. Although mainly performed to study peripheral joint, several articles have underlined its interest to study spinal anatomy. However, its ability to provide diagnostic features is unknown. We studied the case of a 25-year-old woman having low back pain. Three different imaging modalities (Computed Tomography [CT], Magnetic Resonance Imaging [MRI] and Ultrasound) were used to explore it. CT and MRI showed a foraminal dilation of the lombo-ovarian vein at the L3-L4 level with a scalloping of the lateral edge of L3. We were able to detect it with Color Doppler Ultrasound and a malformation of the inferior vena cava was also found. We showed for the first time that Color Doppler Ultrasound can detect venous malformation of the spine. This imaging modality could help us in the diagnosis of atypical lesions of the spine to confirm their vascular origin.

Epidural venous plexus engorgement: what lies beneath?

Epidural venous plexus engorgement may occur due to several conditions that prevent the normal venous circulation. Inferior vena cava agenesis is a very rare cause of epidural venous enlargement. We present a case with a very thin inferior vena cava and left iliac vein agenesis who presented with back pain due to epidural vein engorgement and lacked other venous problems such as deep vein thrombosis.

Venous sinus thrombosis secondary to tuberculous meningitis: a novel cause of trigeminal neuralgia

A 33-year-old Vietnamese man with a history of superior sagittal sinus thrombosis secondary to tuberculous meningitis presented with severe recurrent trigeminal neuralgia. A complex compensatory cerebral venous drainage system developed, and a varix, in direct contact with the root entry zone of the trigeminal nerve, was the trigger for his pain. The patient's symptoms are presently controlled with a combination of medications for neuropathic pain, however he continues to experience frequent severe exacerbations and may very well require more invasive means to manage his condition in future.

Congenital anomaly of the inferior vena cava and factor V Leiden mutation predisposing to deep vein thrombosis

A previously healthy 21-year-old man presented with back pain, bilateral extremity pain, and right lower extremity weakness, paresthesias, and swelling. Sonographic examination revealed diffuse deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the femoral and popliteal venous system. CT imaging revealed hypoplasia of the hepatic inferior vena cava (IVC) segment with formation of multiple varices and collateral veins around the kidneys. Hematologic workup also discovered a factor V Leiden mutation, further predisposing the patient to DVT. The rare, often overlooked occurrence of attenuated IVC, especially in the setting of hypercoagulable state, can predispose patients to significant thrombosis.

Lumbar epidural varix mimicking perineural cyst

Lumbar epidural varices are rare and usually mimick lumbar disc herniations. Back pain and radiculopathy are the main symptoms of lumbar epidural varices. Perineural cysts are radiologically different lesions and should not be confused with epidural varix. A 36-year-old male patient presented to us with right leg pain. The magnetic resonance imaging revealed a cystic lesion at S1 level that was compressing the right root, and was interpreted as a perineural cyst. The patient underwent surgery via right L5 and S1 hemilaminectomy, and the lesion was coagulated and removed. The histopathological diagnosis was epidural varix. The patient was clinically improved and the follow-up magnetic resonance imaging showed the absence of the lesion. Lumbar epidural varix should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of the cystic lesions which compress the spinal roots.

Neurogenic claudication without spinal stenosis arising as a result of lumbar epidural varices

Neurogenic claudication is most frequently observed in patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. We describe a patient with lumbar epidural varices secondary to obstruction of the inferior vena cava by pathological lymph nodes presenting with this syndrome. Following a diagnosis of follicular lymphoma, successful chemotherapy led to the resolution of the varices and the symptoms of neurogenic claudication.

The lumbar epidural venous plexus may have an important role in the pathogenesis of spinal stenosis. Although rare, epidural venous engorgement can induce neurogenic claudication without spinal stenosis. Further investigations should be directed at identifying an underlying cause.

Cauda equina syndrome secondary to an absent inferior vena cava managed with surgical decompression

The authors report on the case of a 24-year-old man who presented with back pain and radiculopathy due to epidural venous engorgement in the setting of a congenitally absent inferior vena cava. Despite initial improvement after steroid administration, the patient's health ultimately declined over a period of weeks, and signs and symptoms of cauda equina syndrome manifested. Lumbar decompression was performed and involved coagulation and resection of the compressive epidural veins. No complications occurred, and the patient made a full neurological recovery.

Epidural varicosis as a possible cause of radicular pain: a case report

Introduction

The incidence rate of epidural varicosis has declined by 0.07% to 1.2% since the introduction of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Despite the use of these modern imaging methods it can still be difficult to distinguish the diagnosis of epidural varicosis from other causes, such as nucleus pulposus prolapse.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 48-year-old Caucasian woman who had been experiencing sciatic pain for seven years. A physical examination showed nerve root pain at L5 on the right side, with positive signs of neurotension. During an elective hysterectomy due to endometriosis, unusually pronounced varicosis in her lesser pelvis was seen that had not previously been detected. Postoperatively, our patient developed a symptomatic pulmonary embolism. Findings from magnetic resonance tomography of her lumbar spine, in conjunction with our patient's history, were considered by the radiologist to be indicative of epidural varicosis. No further pathological abnormalities that could have been the cause of the nerve root pain were found.

Conclusions

In cases of epidural varicosis with irritation of neural structures as a result of inferior vena cava hypoplasia, surgical treatment leads to unsatisfactory results. Significantly better results can be achieved by resolving the cause of the vena cava pathology. In cases of hypoplasia or aplasia of the inferior vena cava this is not always possible; consequently, as in the case of our patient, only a symptomatic therapy in combination with an anticoagulant and compression therapy can be performed.

A very rare cause of low-back pain and sciatica: deep vein thrombosis due to absence of the inferior vena cava mimicking the clinical and radiological signs of lumbar disc herniation

The authors report a very rare cause of low-back pain and sciatica in a patient with iliac vein thrombosis attributed to absence of the infrarenal segment of the inferior vena cava (IVC) with massively dilated venous collaterals draining via a paraspinal plexus into the azygous system. This 21-year-old man presented with acute low-back pain radiating to the left ventral thigh. The initial CT scan revealed an intraspinal lesion that mimicked lumbar disc herniation. Further clarification revealed an iliac vein thrombosis, which was triggered by the absence of the infrarenal segment of the IVC, a very rare vascular anomaly. Collateral venous return was developed and led to lumbar varicosities and epidural vein engorgements. Laboratory examinations revealed factor V mutation as a predisposing factor for thrombosis. The patient's symptoms were relieved with anticoagulation and antiinflammatory therapy. Absence of the infrarenal IVC associated with iliac vein thrombosis should be regarded as a very rare cause of radicular and low-back pain, and this condition can mimic the clinical and radiological signs of lumbar disc herniation. Sciatica might be the first clinical manifestation of this rare venous anomaly.

Inferior vena cava agenesis and deep vein thrombosis: 10 patients and review of the literature

Inferior vena cava agenesis (IVCA) is a rare condition, found in almost 5% of patients under 30 years old with unprovoked deep venous thrombosis (DVT). We describe 10 consecutive patients with IVCA-associated DVT and conducted an extensive literature review to investigate the typical spectrum of IVCA-associated DVT. Among our patients (eight men and two women; mean age, 25 ± 4.5 years), DVT followed intense and unusual (major) physical activity for eight of them. DVT was bilateral in six patients and unilateral in four. Ultrasonography was unable to detect IVCA, which was visualized by computed-tomography scans for seven patients, and magnetic resonance imaging and angiography for 10. Hereditary thrombophilia screening, to detect factor V Leiden or prothrombin gene heterozygosity (G20210A mutation), was positive for only two patients. Wearing elastic stockings and taking an indefinite or long-term vitamin K antagonist were prescribed for all 10 patients and nine complied with the latter. To date, 62 patients with IVCA-associated DVT have been reported in the English literature. Analysis of them and our patients yielded a typical spectrum of IVCA-associated DVT characteristics: IVCA occurs in young adults, particularly males, and is revealed by proximal DVT following major physical exertion. All were treated with a prolonged vitamin K antagonist and advised to wear elastic stockings. No precise duration of anticoagulation has been established.

Absent inferior vena cava resulting in exercise-induced epidural venous plexus congestion and lower extremity numbness: a case report and review of the literature

STUDY DESIGN

Case report and clinical discussion.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a unique etiology for a patient presenting with exercise-induced lower extremity numbness found to have agenesis of the infrarenal inferior vena cava (IVC) and a large vein draining the confluence of the iliac veins through the L4 foramen into the epidural plexus.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Epidural venous abnormalities are infrequently determined to be the etiology of nerve root compression syndromes. Such cases have been described in patients with absent IVC with thrombosis. We are unaware of any previously described cases of absent IVC with a primary route of venous return through the epidural venous plexus, resulting in symptoms in the absence of thrombosis.

METHODS

We describe a case of a 34-year-old man who presented complaining of numbness of legs as well as cauda equina symptoms occurring during exercise. He was found to have infrarenal absence of the IVC with the confluence of the iliac veins forming a large draining vein which entered the L4 foramen into the epidural venous plexus. Pre- and postexercise magnetic resonance imaging scans were performed to compare change in the size of the plexus.

RESULTS

Postexercise magnetic resonance imaging showed notable increase in the volume of the epidural venous plexus of the lower lumbar spine. The patient was referred to neurosurgery and vascular surgery, which did not intervene. On follow-up 2 years later, the patient developed significant right deep venous thrombosis and was found to be heterozygous for factor V Leiden mutation.

CONCLUSION

This case demonstrates the breadth of anatomic and physiologic understanding a clinician must draw on when approaching patients with nerve root compression symptoms. It is also pertinent to consider performing a hypercoagulable work-up in patients with vascular deformations, as this may prevent future thrombosis.

Intradural lumbar varix resembling a tumor: case report of a magnetic resonance imaging-based diagnosis

STUDY DESIGN

Review the presentation and diagnosis of a lumbar intradural varix.

OBJECTIVE

To report an innovative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique that enabled radiographic diagnosis in a rare case of symptomatic lumbar intradural varix.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Lumbar variceal veins rarely occur intradurally, and may radiographically mimic nerve-sheath tumors. These lesions are typically diagnosed at surgery performed due to suspicion of tumor.

METHODS

A 55-year-old man presented with radicular lower back pain and normal neurologic examination. MRI revealed an ellipsoid intradural enhancing mass at the L2 level. The patient refused to undergo the surgical procedure that was recommended. Over 2-year follow-up, symptoms resolved together with weight reduction. Repeat MRI revealed an unchanged lumbar lesion in addition to engorged epidural and intradural veins, thought to be related to outflow obstruction secondary to past right nephrectomy and obliterated inferior vena cava. Breath-holding and Valsalva maneuvers during MRI caused a change in the shape of the intradural lesion.

RESULTS

The patient's refusal to undergo surgery led to noninvasive assessment of his lumbar spinal pathology. Diagnosis of nonthrombosed intradural varix was established on MRI-based detection of a change in the shape of the lesion following breath-hold and Valsalva maneuvers.

CONCLUSION

We diagnosed a nonthrombosed intradural varix by demonstrating a change in the lesion's shape on MRI, following breath-hold and Valsalva maneuvers. This is the first report of nonpathologic, purely radiologic diagnosis of such a lesion. This is a relatively simple, noninvasive method of evaluating these patients.