Spinal Cord Ischemia Secondary to Aortic Dissection: Case Report with Literature Review for Different Clinical Presentations, Risk Factors, Radiological Findings, Therapeutic Modalities, and Outcome

Abstract

Aortic dissection (AD) is a serious condition that causes transient or permanent neurological problems that include spinal cord ischemia (SCI), which occurs when AD extends into the descending aorta resulting in insufficient perfusion of segmental arteries that supplies the spinal cord. We report a 64-year-old male, presented with severe back pain, asymmetrical paresthesia, and weakness of both limbs, more in the left lower limb with loss of pinprick, temperature, and fine touch sensation on the lower left lower limb below the level of T5 with preserved proprioception and vibration and urine hesitancy. Computed tomography showed AD, Stanford type A, and spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed hyperintense owl’s eye sign at T5. The patient was diagnosed as anterior spinal artery syndrome secondary to an AD and referred for aortic surgical repair with good functional outcome. In our review to cases of SCI due to AD, it was more common in males above 55 years, pain only found in 47.8% of patients, with anterior cord syndrome on top of the clinical presentations, and hypertension is the most common risk factor. MRI spine showed thoracic location predominance. Surgical or endovascular repair especially for type A and complicated type B should be considered to avoid complications, and cerebrospinal fluid drainage is a very useful tool in reversing SCI specially if done early with favorable outcome. Only the old age is associated with increased risk of mortality. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for better outcome.