Spinal cord compression due to extramedullary haematopoiesis in two patients with thalassaemia: complete regression with blood transfusion therapy

Extramedullary haematopoiesis, a common finding in thalassaemia, is rarely localized in the spinal cord and even more rarely has neurological manifestations. We present two patients suffering from thalassaemia (intermedia and beta homozygous) and paraparesis due to spinal cord compression from intrathoracic extramedullary haematopoietic masses. Diagnosis was based on magnetic resonance imaging findings, and treatment consisted of blood hypertransfusions. The majority of published cases have been successfully treated by radiation and in some cases by blood transfusions. Our two patients completely recovered, and there has been no recurrence during the 4 years since their treatment. Diagnosis and treatment of this rare condition are discussed.