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Another Neurologic Complication of Cocaine?

Lawrence M. Samkoff, MD; Michael Daras, MD; Anne R. Kleiman, DO; Barbara S. Koppel, MD

Arch Neurol. 1996;53(8):819-821.

Abstract
Objectives
To describe a patient with a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma associated wth cocaine use and to present issues related to pathogenesis and management of this potential complication.

Design
Case report.

Setting
Municipal hospital.

Case
A spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma developed at the thoracic level in a 62-year-old man in association with cocaine use. Clinical, laboratory, and radiologic data are presented.

Main Outcome and Results
The patient was treated medically with intravenous and oral dexamethasone sodium phosphate. His neurologic status gradually improved during a 12-day hospitalization.

Conclusion
Cocaine use should be considered in the evaluation of spontaneous spinal epidural hemorrhage.

Author Affiliations
From the Department of Neurology, New York Medical College—Metropolitan Hospital Center, New York, NY.

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