Spontaneous epidural hematoma of the cervical spine in two patients with sarcoidosis

BACKGROUND: Sarcoidosis is correlated with hematological abnormalities that can result in spontaneous spinal epidural hematomas (EDH). As there is significant risk for permanent neurologic sequelae due to acute cord compression, these lesions often warrant emergent surgical intervention. CASE DESCRIPTION: Two females, 56 and 62 years of age, respectively, both with sarcoidosis on corticosteroids, presented with the spontaneous acute onset of cervical pain, and progressive myeloradiculopathy. Emergent MR scans revealed cervical EDHs with cord compression, respectively, from C5-T1, and C6-C7. Following emergent laminectomies in both cases, patients’ neurological deficits resolved. CONCLUSION: Two patients with sarcoidosis at increased risk for spontaneous hemorrhages, presented with cervical EDHs warranting emergent decompressive laminectomies.