Skeletal Fluorosis With Thoracic Myelopathy: A Report of 2 Cases

Abstract

Background: To report 2 different presentations of thoracic myelopathy with ossification of ligamantum flavum (OLF) due to fluorosis. Methods: Two females presented with thoracic myelopathy secondary to spinal stenosis with OLF due to fluorosis. On examination, the first patient had a grade 4 power in both lower limbs with altered sensation below L1 dermatome. She had segmental OLF on magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography and was treated with posterior thoracic laminectomy and recovered well. The second patient had a history of a prior thoracic laminectomy at another institution and presented with paraplegia with bladder involvement. Radiological investigations revealed a 3column injury at the level of D8/D9. This patient was treated with decompression and stabilization. Results: The first patient recovered neurologically and regained independent ambulation while the second patient had a reduction in spasticity but no recovery of power or bladder function. Conclusion: Different presentations and causes of myelopathy due to OLF should be recognized and treated. An unstable injury is very rare and should not be missed.