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Neurology  (Expert Forum)
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thoracic MRI results
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thoracic MRI results

by susyc, May 27, 2007 12:00AM
Would you please explain the following impressions from my recent thoracic MRI?
1. Abnormal MRI of the thoracic spine demonstrating degenerative changes at multiple disc levels with some marrow edema anteriorly in the mid and lower thoracic spine. No vertebral compression deformity is seen.
2. Small vertebral hemangiomas T3 and T6 vertebral bodies.
3. Protrusion T2-T3 extending slightly above and below the disc space with effacement of the anterior thecal sac.
4. Central and slightly left-sided disc protrusion at T7-T8 abutting the thoracic cord. Left-sided neural compression should be considered.
5. Tiny right-sided disc protrusion at T9-T10 without neural compression.
6. Incidental note of disc bulges at C5-C6 and C6-C7.
My symptoms are pain in the middle of my back radiating down the back of both arms. I have had this pain for 7 months. It is 24/7 but can be worse if I wear a sports bra,mopping,etc.  Numb/fleshy feeling in my hands and feet. I am scheduled to see a neurosurgeon, but that is still weeks away. Thanks!

by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-SH, Jun 23, 2007 12:00AM
First of all, keep in mind that I am unable to diagnose you because I am unable to examine you, this forum is for educational purposes.
    The MRI of your thoracic spine report (keep in mind that I cannot see the films) suggests that you have degenerative changes (likely from arthritis or age related) and multi-level disce disease with various levels of compression on the nerves that exit the spine and the spinal cord.  Hemangiomas are a normal finding.  The most concerning finding is the T2-3 disc that is reported to be compressing the spinal cord.  This could lead to the symptoms that you describe.  I agree with seeing a neurosurgeon, but if additional information is needed on the cuase of your pain, I would recommend and EMG (nerve muscle test) which can evaluate for any peripheral nerve compression/irritation and also help diagnose the disc problem as well.
I hope this has been helpful.
Member Comments (2)

by susyc, May 27, 2007 12:00AM
I forgot a few more details.  I am a 61 yr old female is very good health except for back.  I am not overweight; have a BMI of 23 and I am only 8 lbs heavier than I was in high school.(just yesterday :)  I have exercise at least 6 days a week for over 30 yrs. I fell running 15 yrs ago and fractured both the right radius and ulna. Last spring I fell speed walking and fractured my right radius.  These symptoms started about 4/5 months later.
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