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The etiology of cervical artery dissection

Michael T Haneline1, Anthony L Rosner

  • 1Professor, Palmer College of Chiropractic West, Department of Research, San Jose, CA 95134.

Journal of Chiropractic Medicine
|August 14, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Cervical artery dissection (CAD) etiology remains unclear, with potential links to cervical spine manipulation in susceptible individuals. Further research is needed to identify specific risk factors and causal relationships.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Anatomy

Background:

  • Cervical artery dissection (CAD) etiology is not fully understood.
  • A number of risk factors have been associated with CAD.
  • CAD can rarely occur after cervical spine manipulation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the anatomy of cervical arteries.
  • To discuss the developmental features, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of CAD.
  • To analyze potential risk factors and the relationship between cervical manipulation and CAD.

Main Methods:

  • This commentary reviews existing literature on cervical artery anatomy, CAD development, epidemiology, and dissection mechanisms.
  • It analyzes proposed risk factors for CAD.
  • It discusses the potential role of cervical spine manipulation.

Main Results:

  • The precise cause of CAD is unknown, despite identified risk factors.
  • Many individuals exposed to potential triggers do not develop CAD.
  • A definitive cause-and-effect link between cervical manipulation and CAD is not established.

Conclusions:

  • Cervical spine manipulation may trigger CAD in susceptible patients or worsen existing dissections.
  • The specific factors predisposing individuals to CAD after manipulation remain unidentified.
  • Further investigation is required to clarify CAD etiology and risk factors.

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