Horner’s syndrome secondary to T1-T2 intervertebral disc prolapse

Abstract

Background: T1-T2 intervertebral disc prolapse (IVDP) is a rare clinical condition. Horner’s syndrome is an extremely rare clinical finding in these patients. Case Description: A 56-year-old man presented with the left C8 T1 radiculopathy, left hand grip weakness, and ipsilateral Horner’s syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine showed a contrast-enhancing lesion in the left T1 foramen compressing the left T1 nerve root. He underwent left T1 hemilaminectomy, upper half of left T2 hemilaminectomy and removal of the left foraminal lesion. A biopsy of the lesion was sent for histopathological diagnosis which revealed tissue consistent with disc material. Postoperatively, he had near-complete recovery with residual minimal Horner’s syndrome. Conclusion: T1-T2 IVDP should be considered in the differential diagnosis when a patient presents with C8 T1 radiculopathy and Horner’s syndrome.