MR, CT, and myelographic features of epidural lipomatosis

Central deposition of fat is a well-known clinical feature of chronically elevated corticosteroid levels. Rarely described is increased extradural fat causing compression of the spinal cord and neurologic deficits. Twelve previously reported and five new cases of epidural lipomatosis are presented. Representative examples of the common myelographic and CT findings in this disorder are shown. In addition, previously undescribed examples of epidural lipomatosis demonstrating (1) the MR findings, (2) no associated myelographic block, (3) lipomatosis in both the thoracic and lumbar regions, and (4) a case in a nonobese patient without known steroid use are presented. The importance of considering this entity in the appropriate clinical setting (chronic exogenous steroid use) even with a normal myelogram is stressed