Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma: Another neurologic complication of cocaine?

Objectives: To describe a patient with a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma associated with cocaine use and to present issues related to pathogenesis and management of this potential complication. Design: Case report. Setting: Municipal hospital. Case: A spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma developed at the thoracic level in a 62-year-old man in association with cocaine use. Clinical, laboratory, and radiologic data are presented. Main Outcome and Results: The patient was treated medically with intravenous and oral dexamethasone sodium phosphate. His neurologic status gradually improved during a 12-day hospitalization. Conclusion: Cocaine use should be considered in the evaluation of spontaneous spinal epidural hemorrhage.