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Updated: Jul 20, 2026
06:22
Optical Sectioning and Visualization of the Intervertebral Disc from Embryonic Development to Degeneration
Published on: July 8, 2021
[Calcified disc herniation in childhood]
M Ortega-Martínez1, J M Cabezudo, I Fernández-Portales
1Servicio de Neurocirugía, Hospital Regional Universitario Infanta Cristina, Badajoz.
Neurocirugia (Asturias, Spain)
|September 9, 2006
Summary
Intervertebral disc calcification in children is rare and usually resolves spontaneously. A rare complication can be radiculopathy due to disc displacement, requiring surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Spinal Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Intervertebral disc calcification is an uncommon condition in pediatric patients.
- Its etiology is unclear, and it is not associated with degenerative disc disease.
- Clinical symptoms are nonspecific, including neck pain and muscle stiffness.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old girl was diagnosed with idiopathic intervertebral calcifications.
- Four years later, she developed radiculopathy due to posterolateral displacement of a calcified cervical disc.
- This complication necessitated surgical management.
Findings:
- The case supports the theory that calcified disc herniation can be a complication of pre-existing intervertebral calcification.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for ruling out herniation in diagnosed cases.
- Surgical intervention is rarely required, with only seventeen cases reported in the literature.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but serious complication of pediatric intervertebral disc calcification.
- Early diagnosis and monitoring are essential for managing potential complications.
- Understanding the natural history and potential sequelae is vital for pediatric spine care.
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