Understanding Spinal Epidural Lipomatosis: Clinical Challenges and Emerging Insights

The current research topic aim to improve the knowledge of the etiologies of spinal epidural lipomatosis, particularly focusing on the research of new and more robust data regarding its linkage with metabolic syndrome. An overview of disease characteristics from diagnosis to treatment strategies should be mandatory to enhance the clinical management of patients affected. This research area nowadays is lacking of reliable data regarding the microenvironment of the hypertrofic adipose tissue in SEL and how SEL affects degenerative disease of both the vertebral disk and spondiloarhtrosis. Furthermore, a Randomized Clinical Trial should also be warranted to ensure the soundness of scientific results.This Research Topic on spinal disorders—with a particular emphasis on the lumbosacral tract and conditions such as spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL)—aims to advance understanding of these clinically significant entities by integrating insights from basic science, clinical research, diagnostic imaging, and interventional practice. We welcome contributions that explore the pathophysiology, epidemiology, imaging characteristics, and risk factors of SEL and related spinal conditions, including their associations with obesity, endocrinopathies, chronic steroid use, and degenerative disease.Submissions that address diagnostic challenges and innovations are strongly encouraged, including novel MRI and CT protocols, functional imaging, and image-guided diagnostic procedures. We are particularly interested in manuscripts that highlight the role of Interventional Radiology in the management of these disorders—from image-guided biopsies and epidural injections to minimally invasive decompression, ablation, and vertebral augmentation techniques—alongside comparative analyses with surgical and conservative care approaches.We also invite case series and case reports that showcase unique presentations, complex diagnostic pathways, or innovative interventional solutions, as well as systematic or narrative reviews that synthesize current knowledge and propose future directions for imaging, diagnosis, and treatment in the context of spinal and lumbosacral pathology. Topic editors: Valerio D'Agostino, Federico Ponti, Paolo Spinnato, Nicolas Papalexis Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/74796/understanding-spinal-epidural-lipomatosis-clinical-challenges-and-emerging-insights