Korean J Spine.  2010 Jun;7(2):103-106.

Tuberculosis of the Craniovertebral Junction with Basilar Impression: A Case Report

Affiliations
  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Spine Center, Gil Hospital, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Incheon, Korea. samddal@gilhospital.com

Abstract

We report a rare case of tuberculosis as a cause of secondary basilar impression. A 35-year-old man was admitted to our hospital complaining of severe neck pain and motor weakness on both sides (upper and lower limbs). CT and MRI demonstrated C1/C2 subluxation, basilar impression, and an abscess occupying the prevertebral space. We performed a single-stage operation, comprising anterior removal of the abscess, posterior fixation, and fusion. The patient was discharged five weeks after surgery without any neurologic deficits or complications. Only few reports have been published worldwide describing cases of tuberculosis as a cause of secondary basilar impression. Tuberculosis of the craniovertebral (CV) junction should be considered, especially in young patients with mid- to long-term histories of neck pain without clear origins, to allow for early intervention.

Keyword

Tuberculosis; Craniovertebral junction; Basilar impression; Atlantoaxial dislocation

MeSH Terms

Abscess
Adult
Early Intervention (Education)
Humans
Neck Pain
Neurologic Manifestations
Platybasia
Tuberculosis
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