Cyclic sciatica. A manifestation of compression of the sciatic nerve by endometriosis. A case report.

STUDY

DESIGN

A case of cyclic sciatica secondary to ovarian cyst endometriosis is presented.

OBJECTIVES

To report the clinical description and magnetic resonance imaging aspects of cyclic sciatica.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Endometriosis of the sciatic nerve is rare, but must be included in the differential diagnosis of sciatic mononeuropathies.

METHODS

The authors report a new case of a woman whose cyclic sciatica was caused by an ovarian cystic endometriosis lesion.

RESULTS

Magnetic resonance imaging was described as hyper- and hypointense on T1-weighted sequences, and hyperintense on T2-weighted sequences at the sciatic notch.

CONCLUSION

Magnetic resonance imaging may permit a specific diagnosis of this unusual cause of sciatica by showing a hemorrhagic mass in the region of the sciatic nerve. Early recognition is necessary to prevent permanent damage to the sciatic nerve.