Spinal Melorheostosis: A Rare Cause for Thoracic Radiculopathy.

BACKGROUND

Symptomatic spinal melorheostosis is a rare entity, and its surgical management is even rarer. Our objective is to highlight the importance of considering spinal melorheostosis among the differential diagnosis of thoracic radiculopathy.

METHODS

We report a case of melorheostosis involving the T9 vertebra presenting with unilateral radicular pain managed surgically by decompression and posterior stabilization.

RESULTS

Our patient had complete symptomatic relief following surgical resection without any perioperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Spinal melorheostosis, although rare, forms an important differential diagnosis in patients presenting with thoracic radiculopathy where surgical management can be a viable option in cases refractory to conservative treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5.