Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma related to amphetamine abuse: A case report

Abstract

Background: Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) is a rare condition that is typically associated with hypertension, the use of antithrombotic or sympathomimetic drugs. Here, we report a case of SSEH attributed to the use of amphetamines. Case Description: A 27-year-old amphetamine user presented with the sudden onset of paraplegia (Frankel A) following amphetamine use. An MRI revealed C7–T2 spinal cord compression due to an epidural hematoma. Following a negative angiogram, the SSEH was removed, and the patient markedly recovered. Notably, by exclusion, the etiology for the SSEH was attributed to the use of amphetamines. Conclusion: Here, we demonstrate the case of a 27-year-old male who presented paraplegic due to an acute C7– T2 SSEH secondary to amphetamine abuse.