Primary amyloidoma of the spine. A case report and review of the literature.

STUDY DESIGN

A rare case is reported of primary or idiopathic amyloidoma of the spine derived from production of light chain immunoglobulins. The tumor was successfully treated by anterior decompression and fusion with a fibula strut allograft.

OBJECTIVE

To describe a rare case of AL amyloidoma of the spine.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Radiographic characteristics of this benign deposit are similar to harmful aggressive conditions afflicting the spine.

RESULTS

The patient returned to full function after the surgery with no evidence of systemic amyloidosis or development of multiple myeloma.

METHODS

An isolated AL amyloidoma of the spine was resected and successfully reconstructed with a fibula strut allograft and internal fixation.

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated deposits of amyloid in the spine occur very rarely. When no evidence of myeloproliferative disease or systemic amyloidosis is found, prognosis is excellent. The deposit, when it occurs in the spine has a predilection for the thoracic region and can cause neurologic compromise, pain, and deformity that is responsive to decompression and fusion. The diagnosis of primary amyloidoma requires histologic studies for confirmation.