Spinal Cord Compression Due to Extramedullary Hematopoiesis in a 27-Year-Old Man with Beta Thalassemia Intermedia: A Case Report

Background: Extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) occurs in approximately 15% of cases of thalassemia. Paraspinal mass of extramedullary hematopoiesis are a rare compensatory process in intermediate and severe thalassemia. Case presentation: We present a case of a paravertebral Extramedullary hematopoiesis with a spinal cord compression in a 27-year-old man with beta thalassemia intermedia who complaint of paresis in lower extremities and progression up to umbilical level. Conclusion: Paravertebral Extramedullary hematopoiesis although rare, should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of any upper motor neuron disease condition in patients with thalassemia and therefore appropriate studies should perform to investigate the probable paravertebral ectopic marrow before any surgical intervention.