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Klippel-Feil syndrome
Daniel P O'Donnel1, Rawle A Seupaul
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202-2859, USA.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|February 15, 2008
Summary
A young man with Klippel-Feil syndrome developed central cord syndrome after a fall. This case highlights Klippel-Feil syndrome as a crucial risk factor for cervical cord injuries in emergency medicine.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Klippel-Feil syndrome is a rare congenital disorder characterized by the fusion of cervical vertebrae.
- Central cord syndrome is a neurological deficit typically associated with spinal cord injury, often resulting from hyperextension injuries.
Observation:
- A healthy 19-year-old male presented with central cord syndrome following a moderate fall.
- The patient was diagnosed with Klippel-Feil syndrome, indicated by congenital fusion of multiple cervical vertebrae.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates a direct correlation between Klippel-Feil syndrome and the development of central cord syndrome in a young adult.
- The cervical spine abnormalities in Klippel-Feil syndrome predisposed the patient to neurological compromise after minor trauma.
Implications:
- Emergency medicine physicians must be aware of Klippel-Feil syndrome as a significant risk factor for cervical cord syndromes.
- Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for patients with Klippel-Feil syndrome presenting with potential spinal cord injury.
- This case underscores the importance of considering underlying congenital conditions in the evaluation of traumatic spinal cord injuries.
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