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Liu Z, Cai H, Zhao H, Tang L, Jia S, Zhou Z, Zhuo C, Chen H. Case Report: Technical description and clinical evaluation of three cases of unilateral biportal endoscopic decompression for symptomatic spinal epidural lipomatosis. Front Surg 2024; 11:1309202. [PMID: 38533092 PMCID: PMC10963396 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2024.1309202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of three patients with symptomatic Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) treated using Unilateral Biportal Endoscopic (UBE) surgery. Methods This report retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of three patients with SEL admitted to our hospital. The analysis covers onset characteristics, clinical manifestations, and the most recent radiologic grading system of neural compression (Manjila classification). Furthermore, it details the decompression accomplished through the application of a minimally invasive UBE surgical technique, specifically targeting the removal of proliferated fat responsible for nerve and spinal cord compression. Results This technique was performed successfully in 3 patients with SEL. Radiating pain was reduced, and the functional disability and radiologic compression were improved in all three patients. Postoperative spinal instability and surgical complications related to the procedure were not observed. Conclusions For SEL, timely diagnosis and appropriate intervention can prevent the progression of neurological disability. UBE is a minimally invasive muscle-preserving technique that achieves neural decompression directly by the removal of excessive intraspinal adipose tissue buildup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengqiang Liu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University & Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Huili Cai
- Department of Hematology, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University & Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Hongwei Zhao
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University & Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Lei Tang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University & Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, Hubei, China
- Graduate School, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Siyu Jia
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University & Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhou
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University & Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, Hubei, China
- Graduate School, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Can Zhuo
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University & Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, Hubei, China
| | - Haidan Chen
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University & Yichang Central People's Hospital, Yichang, Hubei, China
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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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Schmutzer-Sondergeld M, Zimmermann H, Trabold R, Liebig T, Schichor C, Siller S. Outcome of posterior decompression for spinal epidural lipomatosis. Acta Neurochir (Wien) 2023; 165:3479-3491. [PMID: 37743433 PMCID: PMC10624717 DOI: 10.1007/s00701-023-05814-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to osteoligamentous lumbar stenosis (LSS), outcome of surgical treatment for spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is still not well defined. We present risk factors for SEL and clinical long-term outcome data after surgical treatment for patients with pure SEL and a mixed-type pathology with combined SEL and LSS (SEL+LSS) compared to patients with pure LSS. METHODS From our prospective institutional database, we identified all consecutive patients who were surgically treated for newly diagnosed SEL (n = 31) and SEL+LSS (n = 26) between 2018 and 2022. In addition, a matched control group of patients with pure LSS (n = 30) was compared. Microsurgical treatment aimed for posterior decompression of the spinal canal. Study endpoints were outcome data including clinical symptoms at presentation, MR-morphological analysis, evaluation of pain-free walking distance, pain perception by VAS-N/-R scales, and patient's satisfaction by determination of the Odom score. RESULTS Patients with osteoligamentous SEL were significantly more likely to suffer from obesity (body mass index (BMI) of 30.2 ± 5.5 kg/m2, p = 0.03), lumbar pain (p = 0.006), and to have received long-term steroid therapy (p = 0.01) compared to patients with SEL+LSS and LSS. In all three groups, posterior decompression of the spinal canal resulted in significant improvement of these symptoms. Patients with SEL had a significant increase in pain-free walking distance during the postoperative course, at discharge, and last follow-up (FU) (p < 0.0001), similar to patients with SEL+LSS and pure LSS. In addition, patients with pure SEL and SEL+LSS had a significant reduction in pain perception, represented by smaller values of VAS-N and -R postoperatively and at FU, similar to patients with pure LSS. In uni- and multivariate analysis, domination of lumbar pain and steroid long-term therapy were significant characteristic risk factors for SEL. CONCLUSIONS Surgical treatment of pure SEL and SEL+LSS allows significant improvement in pain-free walking distance and pain perception immediately postoperatively and in long-term FU, similar to patients with pure LSS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanna Zimmermann
- Department for Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Raimund Trabold
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Liebig
- Department for Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Schichor
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Sebastian Siller
- Department of Neurosurgery, LMU University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
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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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Manjila S, Fana M, Medani K, Kay MD, Manjila R, Bazil TG, Udayasankar U. Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis Causing Lumbar Canal Stenosis: A Pictorial Essay on Radiological Grading and the Role of Bariatric Surgery Versus Laminectomy. Cureus 2022; 14:e26492. [PMID: 35919217 PMCID: PMC9339211 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.26492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is a rare condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of adipose tissue in the spinal canal that can have a compressive effect on intraspinal neuroanatomical structures, leading to clinical symptoms. Several different conservative and surgical treatment strategies have been proposed but the treatment and outcomes remain controversial. There is a lack of severity-based evidence documenting the success of decompressive laminectomy in SEL and there are only anecdotal reports of clinico-radiological success with weight loss from bariatric surgery. This article demonstrates the resolution of SEL in two patients with bariatric surgery with the help of pre and postoperative MR imaging. The authors also highlight the classic “types” of spinal epidural lipomatosis with a surgically relevant grading system and elucidate the existence of concurrent extraspinal lipomatosis (i.e. mediastinal and intra-abdominal lipomatosis), drawing parallels with the natural history of SEL. The controversial question remains whether a symptomatic SEL patient needs a multilevel laminectomy for spinal decompression or bariatric surgery that can indirectly help the spinal condition. We propose that bariatric intervention could be better frontline management in patients with multifocal/multisystem lipomatosis (i.e., combined spinal and extraspinal) and spinal decompression would be ideal for those SEL patients with coexisting bony and/or ligamentous spinal canal or foraminal stenosis. This manuscript serves as a comprehensive and contemporary update on the radiological profile and two plausible treatment paths and will look toward further verification by a randomized clinical trial.
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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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Walker PB, Sark C, Brennan G, Smith T, Sherman WF, Kaye AD. Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis: A Comprehensive Review. Orthop Rev (Pavia) 2021; 13:25571. [PMID: 34745483 DOI: 10.52965/001c.25571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose of review This is a comprehensive review regarding the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL). Recent Findings SEL is a relatively rare condition that has gained scientific relevance over the past few decades. Recent findings include expanding treatment strategies to include minimally invasive surgical techniques. Summary SEL is caused by an excess of adipose tissue accumulation localized to the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spine. While the exact pathogenesis is not fully elucidated, the etiology of SEL can be broadly classified based on five commonly associated risk factors; exogenous steroid use, obesity, endogenous steroid hormonal disease, spine surgery, and idiopathic disease. Progression of SEL may lead to neurological deficits, myelopathy, radiculopathy, neurogenic claudication, loss of sensation, difficulty voiding, lower extremity weakness, and rarely cauda equina syndrome. Conservative management is largely patient-specific and aimed at mitigating symptoms that arise from shared risk factors. If more advanced treatment measures are necessary, minimally invasive surgery and open surgical techniques, have proven successful.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cain Sark
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
| | - Gioe Brennan
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
| | - Taylor Smith
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
| | | | - Alan D Kaye
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center Shreveport
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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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Two-year outcome comparison of decompression in 14 lipomatosis cases with 169 degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis cases: a Swiss prospective multicenter cohort study. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2020; 29:2243-2253. [PMID: 32409888 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-020-06449-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is defined as an abnormal and extensive accumulation of unencapsulated adipose tissue within the spinal epidural space. To date, there is a lack of high-level evidence studies reporting the outcome of surgical treatment of symptomatic SEL in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). The aim was to compare clinical outcomes in patients with symptomatic LSS with and without SEL who underwent decompression surgery alone at the 12- and 24-month follow-up. METHODS One hundred and eighty-three patients met the inclusion criteria, of which 14 had mainly SEL on at least one level operated in addition to possible degenerative changes on other levels and 169 degenerative LSS only. The main outcomes were pain (Spinal Stenosis Measure (SSM) symptoms), disability (SSM function), and quality of life [EQ-5D-3L summary index (SI)] at 24-month follow-up, and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in SSM symptoms, SSM function, and EQ-5D-3L SI. RESULTS The multiple regression linear models showed that SEL was associated with worse SSM symptoms (p = 0.045) and EQ-5D-3L SI scores (p = 0.026) at 24-month follow-up, but not with worse SSM function scores. Further, depression (in all models) was negatively associated with better clinical outcomes at 24-month follow-up. In the outcomes SSM symptoms and EQ-5D-3L SI, distinctly more patients in the classical LSS group reached MCID than in the SEL group (71.3% and 62.3% vs. 50.0% and 42.9%). CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated that decompression alone surgery was associated with significant improvement in disability in both groups at 2 years, but not in pain and quality of life in patients with SEL.
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Nagahama Y, Holland MT, Hitchon PW. Spinal epidural lipomatosis due to obesity presenting with back and leg pain and weakness successfully treated with weight loss. INTERDISCIPLINARY NEUROSURGERY 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.inat.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Chin J, Kviatkovsky B, Lomiguen C. Osteopathic Considerations for Peripheral Neuropathy Due to Concomitant Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis Syndrome and Lumbar Epidural Lipomatosis: Case Report. Interact J Med Res 2019; 8:e14607. [PMID: 31746769 PMCID: PMC6914272 DOI: 10.2196/14607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) syndrome and lumbar epidural lipomatosis are relatively asymptomatic neurological conditions, with findings often seen incidentally on radiological studies. Objective The aim of this paper is to present unique findings of concomitant, symptomatic DISH syndrome and lumbar epidural lipomatosis and to discuss the osteopathic diagnosis and treatment implications. Methods Concomitant, symptomatic variants are rare and present challenges to treatment and management, as seen with a 60-year-old African American woman who presented with worsening disequilibrium and new-onset bilateral fingertip numbness. Past medical history was significant for alcohol abuse disorder, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and multiple episodes of self-resolving vertigo and lower extremity neuropathy. Results The patient was referred to the neurology department for stroke workup, which was negative. Osteopathic structural exam revealed thoracolumbar and sacral dysfunctions. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed findings consistent with thoracic DISH syndrome and lumbar epidural lipomatosis in the areas of somatic dysfunctions. Conclusions Due to minimal information on osteopathic manipulative treatment in rare neurological diseases, only gentle techniques of myofascial release, balanced ligamentous tension, and muscle energy were performed with resultant minimal improvement, thus highlighting the necessity for better guidelines and further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Chin
- Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Bina Kviatkovsky
- Staten Island University Hospital, Northwell Health, Staten Island, NY, United States
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Kim K, Mendelis J, Cho W. Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis: A Review of Pathogenesis, Characteristics, Clinical Presentation, and Management. Global Spine J 2019; 9:658-665. [PMID: 31448201 PMCID: PMC6693071 DOI: 10.1177/2192568218793617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Narrative review of available literature. OBJECTIVE To summarize current trends in pathogenesis and management of spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) and suggest areas where more research would be of benefit. METHODS The available literature relevant to SEL was reviewed. PubMed, Medline, OVID, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were used to review the literature. Institutional review board approval is not applicable for this study. RESULTS This article clearly summarizes current trends in the pathogenesis and management of SEL. CONCLUSIONS Possible etiologies of SEL include exogenous steroid use, endogenous steroid hormonal disease, obesity, surgery induced, and idiopathic disease. Comorbidities such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and Scheuermann's disease have also been implicated in the pathogenesis of SEL. Steroid-induced SEL seems to have a proclivity for the thoracic region of the spine and has a higher incidence of paraplegia when compared with other forms. Several treatment modalities exist for SEL and are dictated by the underlying cause of the disorder. These include weight reduction, cessation of steroid medications, treatment of underlying endocrine abnormalities, and surgical decompression. Conservative treatments generally aim to decrease the thickness of adipose tissue in the epidural space, but the majority of patients tend to undergo surgical decompression to relieve neurologic symptoms. Surgical decompression provides a statistically significant reduction in symptoms, but postoperative mortality is high, influenced primarily by the patient's preoperative comorbidities. Physicians should consider the underlying cause of SEL in a given patient before pursuing specific treatment modalities, but alarm symptoms, such as the development of acute cauda equina syndrome, should likely be treated with urgent surgical decompression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keonhee Kim
- Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea,Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joseph Mendelis
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA,Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Woojin Cho
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA,Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA,Woojin Cho, Montefiore Medical Center, Montefiore
Green Medical Arts Pavilion, 3400 Bainbridge Ave, 6th Floor, Bronx, NY 10467-2404, USA.
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Ge Y, Yang X, You Y, Xuan Y, Yan G. Comparison of relative and absolute values of magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of spinal epidural lipomatosis. J Spinal Cord Med 2019; 42:502-507. [PMID: 29595411 PMCID: PMC6718140 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2018.1449782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) of the lumbar region and evaluate the relative versus absolute values of epidural fat (EF) to determine which is more appropriate when using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). DESIGN Comparative study. SETTING Hospital. PARTICIPANTS Eight SEL patients and 40 healthy adults. INTERVENTIONS MRI measurement of EF. OUTCOME MEASURES The MRI-based EF thickness, cutoff value, and coefficient of variation (CV) were calculated. Frequency distribution maps for the absolute EF value and the relative EF/DuS value were created. RESULTS SEL involved L3 - L4 in all cases. The mean EF thickness was 12.11 ± 2.28 mm (range: 9.91 - 16.86 mm), and the average diameter of the dural sac (DuS) was 20.02 ± 2.64 mm; the EF/DuS ratio was 0.61 ± 0.03. In controls, the average EF thickness was 7.35 ± 1.68 mm (range: 4.81 - 10.92 mm), and the average DuS was 20.86 ± 2.11 mm; the EF/DuS ratio was 0.35 ± 0.08. The relative and absolute values were significantly higher in the SEL group than in the normal group. A cutoff value of 9.8 mm could distinguish SEL patients from normal individuals. For the SEL group, the CV of the relative values (4.9%) was lower than that of the absolute values (18.8%). The frequency distribution map showed that the distribution of relative values was more concentrated than that of the absolute values for both groups. CONCLUSION Based on the frequency distribution and CVs, the relative value of EF/DuS maybe a better measure for diagnosing SEL than the absolute EF value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Ge
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaohan Yang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yaqian You
- Department of Basic Medicine, Medical School, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yinghua Xuan
- Department of Basic Medicine, Medical School, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gen Yan
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China,Correspondence to: Gen Yan, Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, P.R. China; Ph: + 86-510-88683052. Email
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Treatment results for lumbar epidural lipomatosis: Does fat matter? EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2018; 28:69-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s00586-018-5771-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Yasuda T, Suzuki K, Kawaguchi Y, Seki S, Makino H, Watanabe K, Hori T, Yamagami T, Kanamori M, Kimura T. Clinical and imaging characteristics in patients undergoing surgery for lumbar epidural lipomatosis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2018; 19:66. [PMID: 29490659 PMCID: PMC5831840 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-018-1988-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lumbar epidural lipomatosis (LEL) is characterized by abnormal accumulation of unencapsulated adipose tissue in the spinal epidural space. Such accumulation compresses the dural sac and nerve roots, and results in various neurological findings. However, the pathophysiology of LEL remains unclear. This study examined the associations between imaging and clinical findings in detail, and investigated the mechanisms underlying symptom onset by measuring intraoperative epidural pressures in LEL. Methods Sixteen patients (all men; mean age, 68.8 years) were enrolled between 2011 and 2015. Mean body mass index was 26.5 kg/m2. Four cases were steroid-induced, and the remaining 12 cases were idiopathic. All patients presented with neurological deficits in the lower extremities. Cauda equina syndrome (CES) alone was seen in 8 patients, radiculopathy alone in 4, and both radiculopathy and CES (mixed CES) in 4. All patients subsequently underwent laminectomy with epidural lipomatosis resection and were followed-up for more than 1 year. We investigated the clinical course and imaging and measured epidural pressures during surgery. Results Subjective symptoms improved within 1 week after surgery. Mean Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score was 15.2 ± 2.8 before surgery, improving to 25.4 ± 2.5 at 1 year after surgery. On magnetic resonance imaging, all lipomatosis lesions included the L4–5 level. On preoperative computed tomography, saucerization of the laminae was not observed in radiculopathy cases, whereas saucerization of the posterior vertebral body was observed in all radiculopathy or mixed CES cases. Intraoperative epidural pressures were significantly higher than preoperative subarachnoid pressures. The results suggest that high epidural pressure resulting from the proliferation of adipose tissue leads to saucerization of the lumbar spine and subsequent symptoms. Conclusions Clinical courses were satisfactory after laminectomy. In LEL, epidural pressure increases and symptoms develop through the abnormal proliferation of adipose tissue. Higher epidural pressures induce saucerization of the laminae and/or posterior vertebral body. Furthermore, the direction of proliferative adipose tissue (i.e., site of saucerization) might be related to the types of neurological symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taketoshi Yasuda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan.
| | - Kayo Suzuki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
| | - Yoshiharu Kawaguchi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
| | - Shoji Seki
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
| | - Hiroto Makino
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
| | - Kenta Watanabe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hori
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Nippon Koukan Hospital, 1-2-1 Kokandori, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 210-0852, Japan
| | - Tohru Yamagami
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Itoigawa General Hospital, 457, Takegahana, Itoigawa, Niigata, 941-8502, Japan
| | - Masahiko Kanamori
- Department of Human Science 1, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
| | - Tomoatsu Kimura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, 2630 Sugitani, Toyama, Toyama, 930-0194, Japan
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Spinal epidural lipomatosis - an easily ignored secondary intraspinal disorder in spinal kyphotic deformities. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2017; 18:112. [PMID: 28302104 PMCID: PMC5356279 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-017-1467-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A previous study reported a high prevalence of spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) in patients with Scheuermann kyphosis (SK) and suggested that it may play a role in the pathogenesis of this disease. According to our observation, however, SEL occurs in other spinal kyphotic deformities as well. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that SEL commonly occurs in patients with different types of kyphotic deformities as a secondary intraspinal disorder. Methods MR images of 16 patients with congenital kyphosis (CK), 40 patients with SK, 13 patients with tuberculotic kyphosis (TK), and 69 age- and sex-matched controls were retrospectively evaluated. The body mass index (BMI), kyphosis Cobb angle, and sagittal diameters of spinal epidural fat (EF) and the dural sac (DS) in the apical region (EFA, DSA) and non-kyphotic region (EFN, DSN) were measured. The EF ratios at the apical vertebral level (EFRA) and in the non-kyphotic region (EFRN) were calculated as EF / (EF + DS). Results EFA and EFRA were significantly higher among patients with CK, SK, and TK than among controls (P < 0.05). Seven CK patients (43.8%), 8 SK patients (20.0%), and 11 TK patients (84.6%) fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for SEL, while only 6.3, 2.5, and 0% of patients in the control groups did (P = 0.019, 0.014, and < 0.001, respectively). Spearman’s correlation analysis showed statistically significant correlations between the kyphosis Cobb angle and the amount of EF in all three patient groups. Conclusions SEL is a common secondary intraspinal disorder in different types of kyphotic deformities, and surgeons should pay increased attention to this intraspinal anomaly because excessive EF may compress the spinal cord and cause neurological deficits.
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