About this historical patient account: The information below describes reported observations from one case. It does not establish treatment efficacy, safety, a causal relationship or an expected outcome. Outcomes vary, and reported improvement does not demonstrate cure. Do not change prescribed medicines or delay established care based on this account.

Patient Information:

• Name: Ms. Xue Ao
• Diagnosis: Spinal Hemangioblastoma (C3-5)
• Date of Birth (D.O.B): January 1, 1986
• Gender: Female
• Country: China

Treatment: Lesion resection via posterior midline approach at Beijing Puhua International Hospital (PIH)

Medical History:

Ms. Xue Ao, a 23-year-old woman, was admitted to PIH in July 2010 for surgical treatment of a space-occupying lesion in C3-5.

Preoperative Condition:

• Progressively worsening numbness and weakness in the left upper limb for over two years
• Numbness in the right limbs for one month prior to admission
• Neck pain for two years with intermittent numbness in two to three fingers of the left hand
• Gradual involvement of the entire left upper arm and fingers, with immobility
• Previous cervical X-rays at local hospitals revealed a "stiff neck," but no specific diagnosis or treatment was offered

One month before admission at PIH, Ms. Ao's symptoms progressed to involve the right hand and sole of her right foot. An MRI scan confirmed the presence of a space-occupying lesion at C3-5, with possible ependymoma.

Surgical Procedure:

• Lesion resection via posterior midline approach
• Duration: Six hours
• Surgical outcome: Successful

Postoperative Condition:

• Satisfactory recovery following surgery; pathological diagnosis confirmed as 'hemangioblastoma'
• No complaints of neck pain or headaches post-op
• Able to walk independently and perform routine activities shortly after surgery
• Persistent numbness in the left upper arm and foot upon examination
• Uneventful postoperative course, with discharge eight days after surgery

Preoperative MRI Scan:

• Revealed a space-occupying lesion at C3-5