An unusual case of ectopic prostate tissue in an intradural lipoma of the conus medullaris

Abstract

We report the first case of ectopic prostate tissue in a lipoma of the spine. Ectopic prostate tissue is well documented at a number of sites within the human body. Ectopic prostate tissue has previously been reported in the spine but usually in the context of spinal teratomas. This case is unique in that this is the first description of the presence of benign prostatic tissue in a lipoma of the conus medullaris. This is a highly unusual finding and probably reflects divergent differentiation or a malformative process.

Key words:

• Neurosurgery
• operative
• spinal
• spine
• surgical resection

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.