Spinal subdural hematomas (SDH), even
rarer than epidural hematomas, are serious and
responsible for permanent neurological deficit without
adequate treatment. In this article, we report on a case
of cauda equina syndrome after a lumbar puncture in a
young patient.
Case presentation: A 19-year-old male patient who
underwent two lumbar punctures 4 days apart, as part
of a work-up for fever and dizziness, presented with
genital-sphincter disorders. Clinical examination
revealed cauda equina syndrome. MRI revealed an S1-
S2 subdural hematoma. An S1-S2 laminectomy with the
evacuation of the hematoma was recommended. The
evolution was marked by a complete recovery of genitosphincter disorders and sensitivity.
Conclusion: Spinal subdural hematoma can be
responsible for neurological deficits, sometimes
permanent but rarely highly compressive. Management
is medico-surgical.