Superficial siderosis suspected to be related to vertebral fracture and vertebroplasty

Abstract

Superficial siderosis (SS) of the central nervous system is a rare disorder caused by chronic or recurrent hemorrhages into the subarachnoid space, and subsequent deposition of hemosiderin in the subpial layers of the brain and spinal cord lead to the development of neuronal damage. The diagnosis of SS is typically made by brain imaging and management may include identifying and treating the underlying cause of the bleeding, as well as symptomatic treatment. We present the case of a 79-year-old female with chronic progressive gait ataxia and dysarthria. She was eventually diagnosed with SS probably due to lumbar compression fracture treated with vertebroplasty 6 years ago.