Haematorrhachis

HAEMATORRHACHIS (from Greek haima- blood and rhachis- spine, backbone), presence of blood in the cavity of the spine; the hemorrhage occurs from the membranes surrounding the spinal cord; most frequently H. is of traumatic origin (contusion, fracture of the skull or spine, wounds); it is also observed in chronic vascular diseases and in infectious diseases. Clinically, H. manifests with symptoms of compression—pareses, paralyses, flaccid or spastic, pathological reflexes, pain, disturbances of sensitivity, sphincters. It is diagnosed mainly by lumbar puncture, during which, instead of clear transparent cerebrospinal fluid, fluid flows out that is colored either red or yellowish (xanthochromic discoloration). The course of the disease depends on the etiological factors; complete restoration of function is also possible. Treatment—rest, lumbar puncture (lumbar puncture), general diverting agents—bloodletting, leeches, and, in addition, treatment corresponding to the etiological factor is applied.