Calcification of ligamentum flavum causing spinal cord compression in a stroke patient.

Abstract

Hypertrophy or calcification of the ligamentum flavum may be a cause of spinal cord compression. Most cases have been reported to occur in either the cervical or thoracolumbar region. We report an unusual case of a 59-year-old man admitted to the rehabilitation service with a recent diagnosis of right cerebrovascular accident with left hemiparesis. The patient had a history of gait disturbance, motor weakness, and bowel/bladder changes. Admission FIM scores were approximately 62 with complete dependence in mobility (ie, transfers) and locomotion. Fluctuating changes in his neurological status were observed; further testing led to an uncommon diagnoses of thoracic radiculomyelopathy caused by calcification of the ligamentum flavum. This diagnosis, although rare, should be considered in the diagnosis of patients suspected to have spinal cord compression.