Spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) comprises a heterogeneous group of disorders with the final common result of hemorrhage in the spinal epidural space. In this review, the English language literature on SEH is examined. SEH may be acute or chronic, spontaneous, posttraumatic, or iatrogenic. Its occurrence appears to be particularly associated with acquired coagulopathy from medications and disease states. Patients usually present with acute axial spine pain and evolving focal neurologic deficits.

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... n that it is a potentially reversible cause of spinal cord and root compression, the prompt diagnosis and treatment of this relatively rare condition are of importance to all neurosurgeons. When accomplished rapidly, surgical decompression can result in full functional recovery. S pinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is uncommon. Since the report by Jackson 1 on "spinal apoplexy" in a 14-year-old girl in 1869, only several hundred cases of SEH have been reported in the world literature. Because of its rarity, no population-based epidemiologic studies are available. Most of the clinical information regarding SEH consists of isolated case reports and small case series. Review of the entire English language literature on SEH was attempted for this review. What is clear is that SEH may be acute or chronic, spontaneous, posttraumatic, iatrogenic, or associated with specific medications and disease states. It affects all age groups and all levels of the spine, although it is most common in the thoracic region.