Abstract

Brown-Sequard Syndrome Caused by a Large Disc Herniation in C3/4: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Introduction: Brown-Sequard syndrome is uncommon in clinical practice and is very rarely caused by cervical disc herniation. We report a case of Brown-Sequard syndrome due to a disc herniation in C3-C4. Case report: A 39-yearold male presented to the emergency department with neck pain and progressive right hemiparesis. After been initially thought to have a cerebrovascular accident, a thorough assessment and investigation showed he had a left-sided large disc herniation at the level of C3-C4. An urgent C3-C4 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion were performed. He achieved full motor recovery within two weeks after surgery, but some sensory deficits persisted until the last follow-up visit. Conclusion: Due to its rarity, Brown-Sequard syndrome-without a preceding traumatic event- can be confused with other clinical syndromes. A delay in diagnosis and treatment may be detrimental to the outcome. A careful physical exam coupled with a high index of suspicion can provide good outcomes in most cases.

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