[Myelographic diagnosis of an epidural arterio-venous fistula].

INTRODUCTION

Epidural arterio-venous fistulae are a little known clinical condition. They are probably commoner than is thought, since diagnosis and angiographic demonstration are difficult.

CLINICAL CASE

We present the case of a 49 year old man with the clinical features of chronic myelo-radiculopathy with episodes of intermittent medullary claudication. This shows the use of myelography, which in certain cases allows clear detection of vascular structures which might otherwise pass unnoticed.

CONCLUSIONS

One should think of this condition when compatible features are found and there is no other diagnosis, since if confirmed by myelography and/or magnetic resonance prior to angiographic study, it may benefit from embolization, which is an effective treatment for this.