Hemodialysis-associated amyloidosis with cervical spinal cord compression and incomplete tetraplegia: a case report.

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

OBJECTIVES

To report a rare case of hemodialysis-associated amyloidosis of cervical spinal canal with incomplete tetraplegia in long-term hemodialysis patient.

SETTINGS

Traumatology Clinic, Zagreb; Spinal Unit, Varazdinske Toplice, Croatia.

METHODS

Forty-seven-year-old male patient at long-term hemodialysis treatment developed progressive limbs weakness, graded as C4 ASIA C. Cervical computed tomography myelography showed extreme narrowing of the spinal canal. Decompressive laminectomy with bilateral foraminotomies was performed and histological examination revealed amyloidal deposition.

RESULTS

Rehabilitation program started immediately after surgery with physical and occupational therapy, along with psychological support aiming at restoring full activities of daily living. Three months after surgery, the patient returned to his community, neurologically improved to ASIA E. Hemodialysis program was regularly maintained perioperatively and during the rehabilitation.

CONCLUSION

Vertebral involvement with neurological deterioration in hemodialysis-associated amyloidosis patients prompts for early diagnosis, surgical and rehabilitation management, in this instance with good outcome.Spinal