Cervical Pilocytic Astrocytoma Mimicking Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Case Report and Literature Review

Spinal cord pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) is a rare, low-grade tumor in adults, typically presenting with a cystic component. Correct diagnosis is crucial, as gross total resection may improve survival rates. We report the case of a 44-year-old patient with chronic neck and arm pain, along with hypoesthesia on the left side, initially suspected of having myelitis based on MRI findings. Surgical exploration enabled near-complete resection, and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of PA. This case highlights the importance of considering PA in the differential diagnosis of inflammatory and degenerative spinal cord disorders and suggests that further investigation is needed into its treatment and potential recurrence.