Tuberculous spondylodiscitis of the atlanto-occipital articulation

Case contributed by Mohammad A. ElBeialy
Diagnosis probable

Presentation

Neck pain. Poorly-controlled diabetic patient.

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Male

Plain x-ray shows enlargement of the prevertebral soft tissue shadow at C1/C2 level.

MRI shows a destructive lesion is seen involving and centered about the atlanto-axial articulation with edema signal of low T1 and high T2 signal as well as pre-vertebral inflammatory soft tissue. Preserved height and bright T2 signal intensity. No significant posterior disc lesion. Normal cord and cervico-medullary junction.

Case Discussion

Spondylodiscitis, most likely tuberculous with pre-vertebral inflammatory soft tissue lesion (Atlanto-axial TB). 

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