This literature review discusses the epidemiology and etiology of thoracic disc lesions and describes signs and symptoms, diagnostic procedures, differential diagnosis, and treatment. Data presented in case series reports published between 1985-2001 is summarized: Thoracic disc herniations are more common than previously thought. They may cause mild, moderate, severe or confusing symptoms or be asymptomatic; 49% of cases were in men and 51% in women. Trauma was a precipitating factor in 31 %; multiple herniations' were reported in 9%. In symptomatic cases, 57% of patients presented with radicular pain, 48% with back pain, 63% with weakness, 60% with sensory complaints, 25% with bowel or bladder symptoms, and 59% with hyperreflexia. Typical presentations of upper, middle, and lower thoracic disc are summarized. Diagnosis is made by correlating clinical signs and symptoms with the results of diagnostic imaging. Surgery is recommended for patients with progressive neurological dysfunction. Research on the efficacy of conservative treatment is lacking in the literature.
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