Schistosomal myeloradiculopathy - A case report

Abstract The most common neurological impairments related to schistosomiasis involve the lower portions of the medulla and the cauda equina. A 22-year-old woman, with no history, signs, or symptoms of hepatointestinal schistosomiasis, presented with lumbar pain associated with acute paresthesia and paresis of the right lower limb. Spinal schistosomiasis was suspected based on the disease progression and radiological findings, and the diagnosis was confirmed after cerebrospinal fluid analysis. The authors emphasize this pathology as important as a differential diagnosis in similar clinical scenarios, especially in endemic areas, because both early diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid permanent sequelae.

Hernia discal lumbar, una visión terapéutica / Une vision thérapeutique / Lumbar disc herniation, a therapeutic vision

INTRODUCCIÓN: la radiculopatía por hernia de disco lumbar es la mayor causa de morbilidad que enfrentan los cirujanos espinales. Existen múltiples estrategias de tratamiento para esta afección, sin consenso actual entre secuestrectomía y discectomía, y sobre la necesidad de fusionar el segmento. OBJETIVO: mostrar nuestros resultados a los 4 años de seguimiento, en el tratamiento quirúrgico de la hernia discal lumbar mediante discectomía foraminal. MÉTODO: estudio descriptivo prospectivo en pacientes diagnosticados con hernias discales lumbares y tratados quirúrgicamente mediante discectomía foraminal simple y evaluados 4 años después RESULTADOS: muestra constituida por 67 pacientes, la mayoría (62,69 %) del sexo masculino; edad media cercana a los 40 años en ambos sexos. Se confirmó el diagnóstico en el 85,3 % de los casos mediante IRM. Predominó la localización L5-S1 y L4-L5, con 16 % de más de un segmento. El índice de Oswestry y la Escala Visual Analógica del dolor mostraron significativa mejoría a los 4 años de operados. CONCLUSIONES: el tratamiento quirúrgico de las hernias de disco mediante discectomía foraminal simple, según nuestra experiencia, produce buenos resultados; a los 4 años de efectuada la operación se constató disminución del dolor y mejoría de la función.

INTRODUCTION: Radiculopathy by lumbar disc herniation is a major cause of morbidity faced by spinal surgeons. There are many treatment strategies for this condition, and no current consensus among sequestrectomy and discectomy, and the need to merge the segment. OBJECTIVE: Show our results at 4 years of follow-up in the surgical treatment of lumbar disc herniation by foraminal discectomy. METHOD: A prospective study was conducted in patients diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation and foraminal surgically treated by simple discectomy and assessed four years later. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 67 patients, the majority (62.69%) was male; average age of nearly 40 years in both sexes. The diagnosis was confirmed in 85.3% of cases by MRI. L5-S1 and L4-L5 locations predominated, with 16% of more than one segment. Oswestry index and the Visual Analog Scale for pain showed significant improvement after four years of surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The surgical treatment of herniated discs by simple foraminal discectomy, in our experience, has good results; at four years of operation pain decrease and improvement in function was found

INTRODUCTION: La radiculopathie par hernie discale lombaire est la cause de morbidité la plus souvent traitée par les chirurgiens spécialisés en moelle épinière. Il y a plusieurs stratégies de traitement pour cette affection, mais aujourd'hui il n'y a pas de consensus ni entre la séquestrectomie et la discectomie ni sur la nécessité de fusionner le segment. OBJECTIF: Le but de ce travail est de montrer, après 4 ans de suivi, nos résultats à propos du traitement chirurgical d'une hernie discale lombaire par décompression foraminale. MÉTHODE: Une étude descriptive et prospective de patients diagnostiqués de hernie discale lombaire, traités chirurgicalement par décompression foraminale simple et évalués quatre ans après, a été réalisée. RÉSULTATS: Dans un échantillon de 67 patients, dont la plupart étaient du sexe masculin (62,69 %) et avaient un moyen d'âge de 40 ans environ chez tous les deux sexes, on a confirmé le diagnostic par IRM dans 85,3 % des cas. Les hernies ont été souvent localisées aux niveaux L5-S1 et L4-L5, dont 16 % correspondait à plus d'un segment. Quatre ans après l'opération, l'indice d'Oswestry et l'échelle visuelle analogique de douleur ont montré une amélioration significative. CONCLUSIONS: D'après notre expérience, le traitement chirurgical des hernies discales lombaires par décompression foraminale simple a montré de très bons résultats. Quatre ans après l'opération, on a constaté une diminution de la douleur et une amélioration de la fonction.

Ultrassonografia no diagnóstico da tendinite e eletroneuromiografia no diagnóstico da neuropatia periférica e da radiculopatia do membro superior: visão do reumatologista / Ultrasonography for the diagnosis of tendinitis and electromyography for the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy and upper limb radiculopathy: rheumatologists' perspectives

OBJETIVO: Averiguar o valor que os reumatologistas brasileiros conferem ao exame de ultrassonografia para o diagnóstico de tendinite e ao exame de eletroneuromiografia para o diagnóstico da neuropatia periférica e da radiculopatia dos membros superiores. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: No total, 165 reumatologistas responderam a uma pesquisa de opinião anônima (enviada pela internet), sobre diversas situações relativas aos dois exames, no que diz respeito aos seguintes questionamentos: confiabilidade, precisão no diagnóstico, importância e necessidade desses exames para confirmação diagnóstica e credibilidade e treinamento dos profissionais que executam os exames. RESULTADOS: O estudo revelou que a maioria dos reumatologistas reconhece que esses exames são operador-dependentes, que não confia integralmente nos resultados observados, que tais exames não são imperativos para os diagnósticos elencados, e que os profissionais que executam esses exames deveriam ser mais bem treinados para fornecer resultados mais confiantes. CONCLUSÃO: Para os reumatologistas brasileiros, os resultados desses exames devem ser interpretados com cautela e não são definitivos para o diagnóstico; a ultrassonografia musculoesquelética e a eletroneuromiografia devem ser realizadas por profissionais capacitados; deve haver melhor preparo dos executores desses exames em nosso meio.

OBJECTIVE: To ascertain the value ascribed by Brazilian rheumatologists to ultrasonography (US) for diagnosing tendinitis and to electromyography (EMG) for diagnosing peripheral neuropathy and upper limb radiculopathy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In total, 165 rheumatologists answered an anonymous survey (sent via the internet) concerning the two exams, with respect to the following characteristics: reliability, diagnostic accuracy, the importance and necessity of these tests for diagnostic RESULTS: The study revealed that most of the rheumatologists recognised that these exams are operator-dependent, that clinicians do not rely entirely on the results, that these exams are not mandatory for the diagnoses listed, and that professionals who perform these exams should be better trained to provide reliable results. CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian rheumatologists believe the following: the results of these exams should be interpreted with caution and are not definitive for diagnosis; musculoskeletal US and EMG should be performed by trained professionals; and there must be better preparation of the professionals who perform these exams.

Acute meningoencephalomyelitis due to varicella-zoster virus in an AIDS patient: report of a case and review of the literature / Meningoencefalomielite aguda pelo vírus varicela-zoster em um paciente com AIDS: relato de um caso e revisão da literatura

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) meningoencephalomyelitis is a rare but severe neurological complication of VZV reactivation in immunocompromised patients. We report the case of an HIV-infected individual who developed an acute and severe meningoencephalomyelitis accompanied by a disseminated cutaneous eruption due to VZV. The presence of VZV DNA in cerebrospinal fluid was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. The patient started undergoing an intravenous acyclovir therapy with a mild recovery of neurological manifestations. Varicella-zoster virus should be included as a cause of acute meningoencephalomyelitis in patients with AIDS. Early diagnosis followed by specific therapy should modify the rapid and fulminant course for this kind of patients.

A meningoencefalomielite pelo vírus varicela-zoster (VVZ) é uma complicação neurológica rara mas grave da reativação do VVZ em pacientes imunocomprometidos. Nós relatamos o caso de um indivíduo infectado por HIV que desenvolveu uma meningoencefalomielite aguda e grave acompanhada por uma erupção cutânea por causa do VVZ. A presença do DNA do VVZ no líquor foi confirmada pela técnica de reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). O paciente iniciou uma terapia intravenosa com aciclovir com uma leve recuperação das manifestações neurológicas. O vírus varicela-zoster deve ser incluído como uma causa de meningoencefalomielite nos pacientes com AIDS. O diagnóstico precoce seguido por terapia específica pode modificar o curso rápido e fulminante deste tipo de pacientes.

Bloqueo radicular lumbar selectivo guiado por TAC Alternativa para diagnòstico y tratamiento de radiculopatìas originadas por hernias discales y/o artrosis facetarias / Selective lumbar radicular lock replacement for CT-guided diagnosis and treatment of radiculopathy caused by herniated discs and / or facet arthrosis

El presente estudio muestra experiencia en la realización de bloqueos facetarios periarticulares y radiculares lumbares guiados Por Toomografía Axial Computada (TAC), en pacientes con dolor lumbar, o lumbociático provocado por estenosis foraminales de diversas causas, especialmente las secundarias a hernias discales foraminales sin manifestaciones de déficit motor y artrosis facetarias, en estos casos, la causa del dolor se supone se debe ala isquemia que afecta directamente las raíces nerviosas y produce sìntomas. Se realizó la evaluaciòn de 55 pacientes a los que se les efectuó este procedimiento entre los años 2007-2010 con diagnóstico de radiculopatía lumbar provocados por estenosis foraminales secundarias a hernias discales foraminales sin manifestaciones de deficít motor y artrosis facetarias y que no mejorarón con tratamiento médico - kinésico en 4 a 6 semana. 40 Hombres y 15 mujeres con edades entre 35 y 84 años. se realizaron 45 bloqueos de raíces nerviosas, a 10 pacientes se le realizó en dos espacios simultáneo en forma homolateral, y 10 facetarios periarticulares, 8 en forma bilateral. el 90% de los pacientes y refirió mejoría inmediata después del procedimiento, con resultados variables a largo plazo. la duración de la mejoría del dolor fue variable y osciló en un rango de 15 días hasta en forma permanente en el 80% de los casos. Los procedimientos en su mayoría se realizaron con internación de 24 horas. No se presentaron complicaciones técnicas ni posteriores a la inyección. En nuestra experiencia los mejores resultados se encuentran en el dolor radicular con el diagnóstico de hernia discal foraminal. Se concluye con los bloqueos facetarios y radiculares constituyen un método diagnóstico y terapéutico que puede realizarse con mucha precisión y seguridad utilizando la ayuda de imágenes diagnósticas, especialmente la TAC siendo útiles para la localización del origen del dolor y para decidir un eventual tratamiento definitivo...

SUMMARY: The following study shows our experience doing TAC-guided lumbar facet periarticular and radicular blockades in patients with lumbar or lumbociatic pain caused by foraminal stenosis due to different causes, specially those secondary to foraminal disc herniantions without motor impairment and facetary arthrosis (in these cases, the cause of the pain is supposed to be due to ischemia affecting the nerve roots which causes the symptoms). We evaluated patients to whom the procedure was performed between 2007 and 2010, with diagnosis of lumbar radiculopathy caused by foraminal stenosis secondary to foraminal disc herniations without evidence of motor impairment and facetary arthrosis, whichdidn' t improve with kinesic medical treatment in 4 to 6 weeks. 55 patients were incluided, 40 men and 15 women, between 35 and 84 years. 45 nerve root blockades, in 10 patients it was done homolaterally in two space simultaneously, and 10 periarticular facetary blockades were performed, 8 bilateral, 90% of the patients refered immediate improvement of the symptoms after the procedure, with variable long-term results. The duration of the pain relief was variable and ranged from 15 days to permanent in 80% of the cases. In most of the cases the procedure was done with 24-hour hospital stay. There were no complications, neither technical nor following the injections. In our experience the best results are achieved in the treatment of radicular pain with the diagnosis of foraminal disc herniation. In conclusion, facetary and radicular blockades represent highly precise and safe, both therapeutic and diagnostic methods, that could be used with the aid of diagnostic images, specially TAC, to localize the origin of the pain as well as to decide an eventual definitive treatment.

Eletroneuromiografia na avaliação das radiculopatias cervicais e lombossacrais / Electromyography in the evaluation of cervical and lumbosacral radiculopathy

A eletroneuromiografia (ENMG) é empregada como método de diagnóstico complementar no diagnóstico de radiculopatia desde 1950, contribuindo com importantes informações para o esclarecimento diagnóstico, planejamento do tratamento e acompanhamento evolutivo dos pacientes. A presente revisão baseada em evidências buscou referências com ênfase na indicação, sensibilidade, especificidade, reprodutibilidade e limitações do uso desse exame na avaliação das radiculopatias cervicais e lombossacrais. As referências apontam a ENMG como um exame bastante útil tanto na triagem quanto no diagnóstico diferencial na suspeita de radiculopatia cervical ou lombossacra, bem como na avaliação do grau e extensão da lesão, quando respeitadas as limitações da técnica.

Electromyography (EMG) has been employed as a complementary method in the diagnosis of radiculopathy since 1950, contributing important information for diagnostic clarification, treatment planning and patient follow-up. This evidence based review sought references with emphasis on the recommendation, sensibility, specificity, reproducibility and limitations of the use of this test in the evaluation of cervical and lumbosacral radiculopathy. The references point to EMG as being an extremely useful test both in the screening and in the differential diagnosis in the suspicion of cervical or lumbosacral radiculopathy, as well as in the evaluation of the degree and extent of the injury, when the limitations of the technique are considered.

Anatomical and Electrophysiological Myotomes Corresponding to the Flexor Carpi Ulnaris Muscle

This study was designed to investigate the incidence of lateral root of the ulnar nerve through cadaveric dissection and to analyze its impact on myotomes corresponding to the flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) assessed by electrodiagnostic study. Dissection of the brachial plexus (BP) was performed in 38 arms from 19 cadavers, and the connecting branches between the lateral cord and medial cord (or between lateral cord and ulnar nerve) were investigated. We also reviewed electrodiagnostic reports from January 2006 to May 2008 and selected 106 cases of single-level radiculopathy at C6, C7, and C8. The proportion of abnormal needle electromyographic findings in the FCU was analyzed in these patients. In the cadaver study, branches from the lateral cord to the ulnar nerve or to the medial cord were observed in 5 (13.1%) of 38 arms. The incidences of abnormal electromyographic findings in the FCU were 46.2% (36/78) in C7 radiculopathy, 76.5% (13/17) in C8 radiculopathy and 0% (0/11) in C6 radiculopathy. In conclusion, the lateral root of the ulnar nerve is not an uncommon anatomical variation of the BP and the FCU commonly has the C7 myotome. Needle EMG of the FCU may provide more information for the electrodiagnosis of cervical radiculopathy and brachial plexopathy.

Simultaneous occurrence of brain tumor and myeloradiculopathy in schistosomiasis mansoni: case report / Ocorrência simultânea de tumor cerebral e mielorradiculopatia na esquistossomose mansoni: relato de caso

Simultaneous occurrence of brain tumor and myeloradiculopathy in cases of Manson's schistosomiasis have only rarely been described. We report the case of a 38-year-old man who developed seizures during a trip to Puerto Rico and in whom a brain tumor was diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging: brain biopsy revealed the diagnosis of schistosomiasis. He was transferred to a hospital in the United States and, during hospitalization, he developed sudden paraplegia. The diagnosis of myeloradiculopathy was confirmed at that time. He was administered praziquantel and steroids. The brain tumor disappeared, but the patient was left with paraplegia and fecal and urinary dysfunction. He has now been followed up in Brazil for one year, and his clinical state, imaging examinations and laboratory tests are presented here.

Tem sido descrita, raramente, na esquistossomose mansônica, a ocorrência simultânea de tumor cerebral e mielorradiculopatia. Relatamos aqui o caso de um homem de 38 anos que desenvolveu convulsões, durante viagem a Porto Rico, e um tumor cerebral foi diagnosticado à ressonância magnética: a biópsia do cérebro revelou o diagnóstico de esquistossomose. Ele foi transferido para hospital na América do Norte e durante a hospitalização desenvolveu súbita paraplegia. O diagnóstico de mielorradiculopatia foi confirmado na ocasião. Ele recebeu praziquantel e esteróides. O tumor cerebral desapareceu, mas o paciente permaneceu com paraplegia, disfunção urinária e fecal. Ele tem sido acompanhado no Brasil no último ano e o seu estado clínico, os métodos de imagem e os exames de laboratório são apresentados aqui.

[Central loop versus conventional H-reflex in diabetic neuropathic patients]

Diabetes mellitus is the most prevalent endocrine disease and one of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy. Neither conventional electrodiagnostic nor imaging studies [even MRI of lumbosacral vertebrae] can precisely differentiate concomitant radiculopathy [e.g. S[1]-root irritation] and diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy. This usually leads to unnecessary surgical interventions and its complications. In this study, S[1]-roots of diabetic neuropathic patients with impaired conventional H-reflexes were evaluated by the central loop of gastrocnemius-soleus H-reflexes. This descriptive study was performed in the clinics of Shiraz medical school in 1387[2008]. Forty two diabetic patients [14 males and 28 females with a mean age of 48.2 years] with unobtainable or abnormal conventional gastrocnemius-soleus H-reflexes and peripheral neuropathy were enrolled. The central loop of H-reflex was performed bilaterally by stimulating S[1]-root with a monopolar needle and recorded in the half way of the line from popliteal crease to the medial malleolus. Collected data were analyzed by McNemar test, using SPSS software. Of 84 limbs with impaired conventional H-reflexes, 82 limbs [97.6%] had the central loop of H-reflexes with latencies less than 8 ms. All the limbs with abnormally prolonged conventional H-reflexes' latencies had the central loop of H-reflexes' latencies in the range of 5.5-7.85 ms. The latency of central loop of H-reflex in this study was 6.34 +/- 0.96 ms with the range of 4.3-7.85 ms. In case the conventional H-reflex is impaired, the central loop of H-reflex in diabetic neuropathic patients offers a valuable approach for investigating S[1]-root. It seems that this approach leads to a better diagnosis of the absence of radiculopathy and a decrease in the rate of unnecessary surgical interventions and its complications in diabetics

role of different neurophysiological tests in the differential diagnosis of diabetic axonal neuropathy and lumbosacral radiculopathy

To evaluate the role of different neurophysiological tests in the differential diagnosis of diabetic axonal neuropathy [DAN] and lumbosacral radiculopathy [LSR]. This study was conducted at Al-Kadhimiya Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq, from July 2006 to February 2007. Twenty-seven healthy subjects, 44 type 2 diabetics, and 36 LSR patients were studied. The HbA1c level, plain x-ray, and MRI of the lumbosacral region and different electrophysiological tests were assessed. The sural sensory nerve action potential [SNAP] amplitude values were reduced in 56.3%, and the sural/radial amplitude ratio [SRAR] values were reduced in 71.8% in the diabetic patients, but not in the LSR group. The peroneal compound muscle action potential [CMAP] amplitude was low in 70.45% DAN patients versus 35.5% LSR patients. Peroneal F-minimum [Fmin] values were prolonged in 56.8% DAN versus 32.25% LSR patients. The Fpersistence [Fp] values were low in 72.7% of DAN, versus 45.2% of LSR patients. However, the Fchronodispersion [Fc] was abnormal in 71% of LSR versus 11.4% of DAN patients. The SRAR was found to be more significant than the sural SNAP amplitude alone in the differential diagnosis of the 2 groups. Abnormal peroneal Fc and Fp seems to be valuable tests in the detection of LSR and DAN patients

Diabetic and non-diabetic lumbosacral radiculoplexus neuropathy.

BACKGROUND: Lumbosacral radiculoplexus neuropathy (LRPN) originally described in diabetic patients is a distinct clinical condition characterized by debilitating pain, weakness and atrophy most commonly affecting the proximal thigh muscles asymmetrically. The syndrome is usually monophasic and preceded by significant weight loss (at least more than 10 lbs). Though a self-limited condition, recovery is gradual with some residual weakness. Recent advances and research has provided new insights in the pathogenesis and thereby management of this syndrome. In this paper, we review the clinical and diagnostic features as well as discuss recent insights and treatment strategies along with our experience in the management of patients with diabetic and non-diabetic LRPN. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literature in English published between 1953 and 2008 was searched in the MEDLINE and Pubmed database, maintained by the US National library of medicine and National institutes of health, using key words of diabetic amyotrophy, lumbosacral radiculoplexus neuropathy, diabetic proximal neuropathy, diabetic radiculopathy and diabetic lumbosacral plexopathy. In addition, literature reported in various textbooks on peripheral neuropathy was reviewed as well. OBSERVATION: The diagnosis relies mostly on clinical suspicion and characteristic electromyographic findings. The exact pathogenesis of the illness remains unknown, but there seems to be a component of immune-mediated inflammatory microvasculitis which causes secondary ischemia of the lumbosacral plexus. This has prompted a trial of immunosuppressive agents (like steroids) with an attempt to alter the course of the illness. A few reports have noted that immunosuppression when instituted early in the course of the illness (within three months of symptom onset) may hasten the recovery and improve symptoms. CONCLUSION: Though the exact mechanism of LRPN in diabetic and non-diabetic patients remains unknown, new evidence alludes to an underlying inflammatory vasculitic process. Early treatment with immunosuppressants may be beneficial in some cases, although the data available at this time is limited to a small cohort of patients. The decision is individualized weighing the risks and benefits in a given patient. Future research in this direction with double-blinded case-controlled studies is required to investigate this further.

Surgical treatment of isthmic spondylolisthesis with radicular pain in adults.

A common consensus has not yet been reached on surgical management of isthmic Spondylolisthesis especially regarding the optimal surgical procedure. This prospective study was carried to see the outcome of Posterolateral fusion with instrumentation without decompression. Eight consecutive patients, aged between 43 to 55 years, underwent primary surgery for isolated L4, L5 lumbar isthmic Spondylolisthesis of less than grade II that presented with radicular pain and exhibited instability on dynamic radiograph. The surgical procedure consisted of instrumentation with pedicle screws and rods (Moss Miami System) and posterolateral fusion in situ by placement of autogeneous bone graft, harvested from posterior iliac crest. Postoperatively Clinical and Radiological status were assessed and were graded according to Stauffer and Coventry method. The patients were followed up for one to three years. Radiological evidence of fusion was clearly evident by six months in all cases. Symptomatically all were relieved of radicular pain completely. One patient had recurrent backache due to causes unrelated to the illness of surgical procedure requiring occasional analgesic. No serious complication was encountered. This lead to conclusion that in adults of our population with low grade isthmic spondylolisthesis and radicular pain Instrumentation with Posterolateral fusion without decompression was sufficient to relieve symptoms.

Avaliação da relação entre parâmetros antropométricos (peso e altura) e a topografia da raiz de L4 no espaço intertransversário L4-L5 através do acesso paramediano à coluna vertebral- Um estudo anatômico em vinte e um cadáveres / Assessment of the correlation between anthropometric parameters (weight and height) and the L4 root topography at the L4-L5 intertransverse space through paramedian access to the spine: an anatomic research on twenty one cadavers

As hérnias discais extremolaterais correspondem a 10 por cento das hérnias discais sintomáticas, mais comumente localizadas nos níveis L3-L4 e L4-L5. Por muitos anos, a abordagem cirúrgica das hérnias lombares foraminais e extraforaminais foi feita através de via de acesso posterior mediana com hemilaminectomia e facetectomia total ou parcial. A abordagem cirúrgica dessa patologia pela via paramediana, entre os músculos multífido e longuíssimo (via de Wiltse), tem a vantagem de poupar o paciente de perdas ósseas e permitir uma visão mais oblíqua do neuro-foramen. Essa abordagem permite, com mínima mobilização da raiz de L4, acesso ao disco L4-L5 e eventuais herniações extra-foraminais do mesmo. Nosso objetivo é avaliar se há relação entre características antropométricas de um indivíduo e a localização da raiz de L4 no espaço intertransversário, acessado pela via de Wiltse, para com isso poder antecipar alguns riscos cirúrgicos. Foram realizadas dissecções em 21 cadáveres (42 lados) e obtidas as respectivas medidas de peso e altura além da distância entre a base do processo transverso de L5 e o ponto onde a raiz de L4 o cruza. A análise dos dados nos permite concluir que não há relação estatisticamente significativa entre as variáveis envolvidas.

Far lateral disc hernias account for ten percent of all symptomatic disc hernias, usually located at L3-L4 and L4-L5 levels. For many years, the surgical approach to foraminal and extraforaminal lumbar disc hernias was provided through the median posterior access way, with total or partial hemilaminectomy and facetectomy. The advantage of the surgical approach for this pathology through the paramedian way, between the multifidus and longissimus muscles (Wiltse's access) is to spare patients from bone losses and to allow a more oblique view of the neuroforamen. Moreover, this approach allows for accessing the L4-L5 disc and its potential extraforaminal herniations with minimum L4 root mobilization. Our objective is to assess the potential correlation between anthropometric parameters and the L4 root topography. Twenty-one cadavers (42 sides) were dissected and some parameters were measured: cadavers' weight and height, width of the L5 transverse process, distance between L5 transverse process base and the point where the L4 root crosses it. The analysis of data allows us to conclude that no statistically significant correlation exists among the involved variables.

Avulsión traumática radicular lumbar: caso clínico de interés / Traumatic lumbar nerve root avulsion

Traumatic lumbosacral nerve root avulsion it's an infrequent injury that appears in association with pelvic and lumbar fractures or hip dislocations. We describe a clinical case of traumatic avulsion at the LI lumbar root in a patient victim of an accident of high energy, without associate injuries. Magnetic resonance demonstrated traumatic pseudomenin-gocele at the LI lumbar root. The use of intrathecal gadolinium allowed us to confirm diagnosis and evaluate extension. Seven months later, patient returns to its labour activities with minimum pain.

La avulsión traumática de una raíz lumbo-sacra es una lesión poco frecuente que se presenta en asociación con fracturas lumbares y pélvicas o luxaciones de cadera. Se describe un caso clínico de avulsión traumática de la raíz lumbar L1 derecha, en un paciente de 63 años, víctima de un accidente de alta energía, quien no presentó lesiones asociadas. La resonancia magnética mostró un pseudomeningocele traumático de Ll y el estudio con gadolinio intratecal permitió confirmar el diagnóstico y evaluar la extensión. Luego de 7 meses de evolución, el paciente retornó a sus actividades laborales con mínimas molestias.

Effect of height on F-wave latency: redefining reference values for Iranian population

F-wave latency is one of the most sensitive parameters which is used for diagnosis of radiculopathy and neuropathy in electrodiagnostic medicine. Electrodianosis professionals mostly use reference values published in major textbooks mostly written in USA based on anthropomorphic characteristics of American people. Also there is considerable difference between heights of males and females in each country, which is not considered in reference tables. We performed this study to determine any difference between F-wave latencies in both genders and also between our population and mainly used reference values. This cross-sectional study was performed on 60 healthy volunteers [30 males and 30 females]. Minimum F-wave latencies of median and ulnar nerves at wrist, and also tibial and peroneal nerves at ankle were recorded after ten supramaximal stimulation of each nerve. The average heights were 156.05 +/- 4.80 and 171.58 +/- 6.05 centimeters in females and males, respectively. Mean of minimum F-wave latencies in males were 24.93 +/- 1.55, 25.73 +/- 1.48, 46.86 +/- 2.94 and 46.91 +/- 3.04 and in females were 22.66 +/- 1.23, 22.97 +/- 1.33, 42.61 +/- 3.20 and 42.33 +/- 3.17 milliseconds for median, ulnar, tibial and peroneal nerves, respectively. These values were significantly higher in males than females. There was correlation between height and man of F-wave latencies in median, ulnar, tibial and peroneal nerves. There were significant differences between males and females in all tested nerves. Also there were significant differences between our measured latencies and the reference values published in major electrodiagnostic textbooks. Regarding the significant height difference between two genders, we recommend defining separate references values for each group. On the other hand, each population should have its own reference values corresponding to average height of its own people; otherwise the sensitivity of this parameter [F-wave latency] will be significantly low

Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of schistosomal myeloradiculopathy

Schistosomal myeloradiculopathy is the most severe and disabling ectopic form of Schistosoma mansoni infection. The prevalence of SMR in centres in Brazil and Africa that specialise in attending patients with non traumatic myelopathy is around 5 percent. The initial signs and symptoms of the disease include lumbar and/or lower limb pain, paraparesis, urinary and intestinal dysfunctions, and impotence in men. The cerebrospinal fluid of SMR patients shows an increase in protein concentration and in the number of mononuclear cells in 90 percent of cases; eosinophils have been reported in 40 percent. The use of magnetic resonance imaging is particularly valuable in the diagnosis of Schistosomal myeloradiculopathy. The exclusion of other myelopathies and systemic diseases remains mandatory. Early diagnosis and treatment with steroids and schistosomicides provide a cure for most patients, whilst delayed treatment can result in irreversible physical disabilities or death. To improve awareness concerning Schistosomal myeloradiculopathy amongst public health professionals, and to facilitate the control of the disease, the Brazilian Ministry of Health has launched a program of education and control of this ectopic form of schistosomiasis. The present paper reviews current methods for the diagnosis of SMR and outlines protocols for treatment of the disease.

A mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica é a forma ectópica mais grave da infecção pelo Schistosoma mansoni. A prevalência da mielorradiculopatia esquistossomótica em centros médicos no Brasil e em África, especializados no atendimento de pacientes com mielopatia, encontra-se em torno de 5 por cento. Os sintomas e sinais iniciais da doença incluem: dor lombar e/ou dor em membros inferiores, paraparesia, disfunções urinária e intestinal, e impotência no homem. A análise do líqüor destes pacientes revela aumento na concentração de proteínas e no número de células mononucleares em 90 por cento dos casos; a presença de eosinófilos foi documentada em 40 por cento. O uso rotineiro da ressonância magnética tornou-se obrigatório na definição diagnóstica. A exclusão de outras mielopatias e doenças sistêmicas é mandatória. O diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento com corticoesteróides e esquistossomicidas curam a maioria dos pacientes, enquanto o atraso em iniciar o tratamento resulta em seqüelas irreversíveis ou morte. Para melhorar a percepção da importância da mielorradiculopatia associada à esquistossomose, o Ministério da Saúde do Brasil lançou programa de controle dessa forma ectópica da esquistossomose. Nesta revisão, descrevem-se os métodos diagnósticos atuais para o diagnóstico e os protocolos para o tratamento da doença.

Clinical-epidemiological profile of children with schistosomal myeloradiculopathy attended at the Instituto Materno-Infantil de Pernambuco

The most critical phase of exposure to schistosomal infection is the infancy, because of the more frequent contact with contaminated water and the immaturity of the immune system. One of the most severe presentations of this parasitosis is the involvement of the spinal cord, which prognosis is largely dependent on early diagnosis and treatment. Reports on this clinical form of schistosomiasis in children are rare in the literature. We present here the clinical-epidemiological profile of schistosomal myeloradiculopathy (SMR) from ten children who were admitted at the Instituto Materno-Infantil de Pernambuco over a five-year period. They were evaluated according to an investigation protocol. Most of these patients presented an acute neurological picture which included as the main clinical manifestations: sphincteral disorders, low back and lower limbs pain, paresthesia, lower limbs muscle weakness and absence of deep tendon reflex, and impairment of the gait. The diagnosis was presumptive in the majority of the cases. This study emphasizes the importance of considering the diagnosis of SMR in pediatric patients coming from endemic areas who present a low cord syndrome, in order to start the appropriate therapy and avoid future complications.

Diagnóstico clínico das radiculopatias cervicais: semiologia neurológica / Clinical diagnosis of the cervical radiculopathies: neurological semiology

Pacientes com queixas de sofrimento das raízes cervicais são freqüentes na prática diária de qualquer especialidade médica. Doenças degenerativas e herniações nas junções de C5-C6 e C6-C7 são as causas mais comuns de acontecimento radicular cervical. Os autores defendem aqui a idéia "low tech high touch" na avaliação das radiculopatias cervicais, lançando mão de um exame físico acurado e dando ênfase a aspectos tais como: a simples inspeção, o exame da força muscular, dos reflexos profundos e da sensibilidade, além de algumas manobras embasadas no conhecimento da inervação segmentar. A dor localizada e as alterações da sensibilidade em faixa são as manifestações mais freqüentemente encontradas. Para cada raiz com exceção de C1 e C2, encontramos um músculo sentinela que pode evidenciar sinais de fraqueza ou atrofia. Os testes que comprovam dano raticular como, por exemplo, o sinal de Bickele, os testes de Spurling (com 100% de especificidade) e de Tensão do Membro Superior entre outros, quando positivos, são denunciadores de acometimento destes pequenos segmentos neurais aos quais denominamos raízes nervosas.

Patients with complaints of suffering in the cervical roots are frequent in the daily practice of any medical specialty. Degenerative diseases and disk herniations from C5-C6 and C6-C7 are the most common causes for cervical roots lesions. The authors defend the idea of "low tech high touch" in the evaluation of the cervical root diseases using an accurate physical examination and highlighting to aspects such as: simple inspection, examination of muscular strength, deep reflexes, and sensitivity, additionally to some maneuvers based on the knowledge of segmentar innervation. The localized pain and the alterations of dermatomes' sensitivity are the most frequently found manifestations. For each root, with exception of C1 and C2, one can see a sentinel muscle that could show signs of weakness or atrophy. The root suffering tests such as, for example, the Bickele and Spurling (the latter with 100% of specificity) and Upper Limb Tension Test, between others, when positive, show suffering of these small neural segments which we call nervous roots.