Lower Thoracic Spinal Myeloradiculopathy with Intramedullary Schwannoma in an Elderly Woman: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Intramedullary schwannomas are a rare form of spinal tumors. Here, we present a case of a 61-year-old woman who was admitted to our hospital with complaints of weakness in both lower extremities, numbness, urinary and defecation disorders, and radiculating back pain. Physical examination revealed sensory and motoric deficits in the lower extremities, as well as autonomical dysfunctions. Radiological imaging revealed a mass at the lower level of thoracic spinal segment, which was confirmed as a schwannoma through histopathological analysis. The patient underwent laminectomy tumor removal and posterior stabilization. She was also diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Spinal intramedullary schwannoma is a rare condition that requires a thorough history and physical examination for diagnosis, particularly for patients with neurological impairments. Prompt treatment is essential once the diagnosis is made.