Magnetic resonance imaging findings within the posterior and lateral columns of the spinal cord extended from the medulla oblongata to the thoracic spine in a woman with subacute combined degeneration without hematologic disorders: a case report and review of the literature
2011

MRI Findings in a Case of Subacute Combined Degeneration

Sample size: 1 publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Rabhi Samira, Maaroufi Mustapha, Khibri Hajar, Belahsen Faouzy, Tizniti Siham, Berrady Rhizlane, Bono Wafaa

Primary Institution: Hassan II University Hospital, Fez, Morocco

Hypothesis

Can magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effectively identify subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord in the absence of hematologic disorders?

Conclusion

Early diagnosis of subacute combined degeneration is crucial and can be aided by MRI findings.

Supporting Evidence

  • The patient showed improvement in clinical symptoms after vitamin B12 treatment.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging revealed abnormal hyperintense signal changes in the spinal cord.
  • The diagnosis was confirmed by low serum cobalamin levels.

Takeaway

A woman with vitamin B12 deficiency had unusual spinal cord changes seen on an MRI, and she got better after treatment.

Methodology

The case involved MRI scans of the spinal cord and serum vitamin B12 level assessment.

Limitations

The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

29-year-old Moroccan woman.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1752-1947-5-166

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