ABSTRACT

Background Data:

Ossification of the ligamentum (OLF) is a rare condition as an uncommon cause of thoracic myelopathy. Currently, there are approximately 250 reported cases most of which have an Asian origin.

Purpose:

Presentation of a case with ossification of the ligamentum flavum in the thoracic spine.

Case report:

59 year-old woman presented with low back pain which extend to bilateral legs. Neurologic examination revealed global hypoesthesia below the level of T10 and reduced strength of muscles in the right lower extremity as compared to the left side. Magnetic resonance imaging showed ossification of the ligamentum flavum located at the right posterolateral side which lead to narrowing of the posterior subarachnoid space and spinal canal at the level of T10-T11.

Conclusion:

OLF should be considered in differential diagnosis of patients with stenosis in the thoracic spine. However, careful followup is recommended as there is no adequate evidence for the natural course of the OLF in patients without neurological impairments.