Idiopathic tumoral calcinosis–like lesion in the lower cervical spine causing acute central cord syndrome: case report

Abstract

A 57-year-old male presented with recurrent falls, bilateral lower-limb paresthesia, and severe neck pain. Imaging revealed a mass compressing his spinal cord. He was admitted for further workup for spinal cord compression. Within 24 hours of admission, he developed upper-extremity weakness while maintaining lower-extremity function. He underwent urgent decompression of his spinal cord. During exposure, a white, creamy odorless substance was noted. This same substance was found under pressure within the spinal canal. The mass was grossly removed, and the patient's weakness improved postoperatively. Based on the clinical picture, intraoperative presentation, and final histological examination, idiopathic tumoral calcinosis-like lesion was considered as the most appropriate diagnosis.