Pachymeningitis Spinal

Spinal pachymeningitis: symptoms, causes and treatment

Pachymeningitis spinalis, also known as spinal pachymeningitis, is an inflammatory disease that affects the arachnoid and pia mater surrounding the spinal cord. This is a serious condition that requires medical attention. In this article we will look at the symptoms, causes and treatment methods for spinal pachymeningitis.

Symptoms of spinal pachymeningitis may vary depending on the severity of the disease and the individual characteristics of the patient. However, typical symptoms include:

1. Back pain: Patients often complain of severe pain in the back area, which may spread to the neck, chest or limbs.

2. Headache: Many patients experience a sharp or throbbing headache that may be accompanied by difficulty turning the head.

3. Feelings of numbness and weakness: Patients may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the extremities.

4. Decreased sensation: Spinal pachymeningitis can cause decreased sensation in certain areas of the body.

5. Increased sensitivity to light: Some patients may experience increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) or other stimuli.

6. Fever and general weakness: In cases of severe spinal pachymeningitis, fever, general weakness and fatigue may occur.

Spinal pachymeningitis can be caused by various reasons. One of the most common causes is infections, including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. It may also be associated with autoimmune diseases, tumors, injury, or complications from medical procedures.

To diagnose spinal pachymeningitis, your doctor may order a number of tests, including a spinal tap to take a sample of the fluid surrounding the spinal cord, and a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to visualize the spinal column and soft tissue.

Treatment of spinal pachymeningitis usually includes the use of antibiotics or antiviral drugs in case of infectious origin of the disease. For autoimmune causes, immunomodulatory drugs may be used. For severe pain, analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the tumor or relieve pressure on the spinal cord.

It is important to consult a doctor if you experience suspicious symptoms, such as severe back pain, headache, numbness or weakness in the limbs. Early diagnosis and treatment of spinal pachymeningitis can help prevent complications and reduce the risk of serious consequences.

In conclusion, spinal pachymeningitis is a serious disease characterized by inflammation of the arachnoid and pia mater in the spinal cord area. This condition requires timely medical attention and treatment. If you suspect spinal pachymeningitis, consult your doctor for professional advice and diagnosis.