Quix & Elaine

[LLWB]

Part Two

THORACIC SPINE: There is a focus of T1 and T2 hyperintense signal at T-9, without evidence for STIR signal, likely representing hemangioma. Mild Schmorl's node endplate deformities are noted throughout the lower thoracic spine. Degenerative changes are noted, most significant at T6-7 with a right paracentral disc protrusion. There is a mild associated canal stenosis. No significant foraminal stenoses are noted, however. No evidence for abnormal STIR signal. The cord has normal signal character and morphology. The conus ends normally. There is no evidence for abnormal enhancement.

IMPRESSION;

1. Postoperative C-5-6 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion with resolution of the left paracentral mushrooming disc extrusion.

2. Residual degenerative changes, as described above, with possible impingement of the exiting left C4 nerve root at C3-4.

3. Mild degenerative changes within the thoracic spine, most significant at T6-7, without significant stenosis.

Whew! My fingers are tired! I understand the degenerative changes and stenosis. I don't understand what the "internal jugular adenopathy (level II, measuring approx 11mm.) This sounds like a tumor within the jugular vein to me. I also don't understand the hemangioma at T-9. From what I could Google, that is a tumor in that part of the spine.  The Schmorl's node is confusing. Mostly found in teenagers complaining of back pain during sports. It said it a :node" letting the spinal cord protrude posteriorly from the spine. This report says I have these nodes throughout the lower thoracic spine.

Am I right in thinking this is (for me) not good findings? I read two tumors, and lots of stenosis and possible cord compression. I know there is a lot to digest  but I would appreciate any immediate conclusion on things that jump out at you, and then maybe a more in-depth evaluation when you feel up to it.  

Hope you are both as well as can be expected and enjoying the lovely Spring weather... My best, Maggie  PS  please forgive any typos, haven't actually typed from reports lately!

[Quixotic1]

The "internal jugular..." means you have a 1 cm lymph node.  That is not terrribly large and there was no discription that it looked abnormal.  It might be left over from childhood or might be recent.  It is something you should ask your internist about.

The rest of this MRI is less involved with degenerative changes than the cervical, which is good.  Hemangiomas in the vertebrae are common.

Quix

[LLWB]

bump

[RAY911]

Hi Maggie,

i can tell you about the Hemangioma's.  Because I have 3 two in my thoracic spine and one in my lumbar.

They are I guess Tumors,,, BUT NONMALIGNANT. meaning NO CANCER:) They dont usually cause problems unless they cause destruction of the vertebrae.  This happens if they get big enough and this is a RARE thing.  

Once they are discovered they usually just watch them to make sure they dont grow.  otherwise not a problem.  I also read somewhere that allot of people have them and not even know it.  

I hope I helped a little.

Hang in there,  others will be along to help!

Hugs
Ray