Çağdaş DERDİYOK, Eren DUYAR
Eurasian Journal of Critical Care - 2026;8(2):105-107
Background: Spinal shock is typically associated with high-energy trauma, while non-traumatic causes are exceptionally rare. Case: We report the case of an 85-year-old male who presented with sudden-onset back pain and lower extremity weakness; hemodynamic collapse developed during emergency department follow-up. Thoracic computed tomography (CT) revealed acute spinal cord compression secondary to a T3 vertebral hemangioma and osteoporotic collapse. The patient developed neurogenic shock with bradycardia, hypotension, and respiratory failure in the emergency department. Immediate resuscitation with atropine, intravenous fluids, and dopamine infusion achieved stabilization. Thoracic computed tomography revealed a T3 vertebral hemangioma with osteoporotic collapse causing acute spinal canal narrowing. High-dose corticosteroid therapy was administered, followed by urgent neurosurgical intervention. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of recognizing non-traumatic spinal shock in elderly patients with acute paraparesis and hypotension, even without a history of trauma. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are essential to prevent irreversible neurological deficits.
