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Fatality from minor cervical trauma in ankylosing spondylitis
1Klinikum Traunstein, Department of Neurology, Cuno-Niggl-Str. 3, Traunstein, 83278, Germany.
BMJ Case Reports
|June 21, 2011
Summary
Ankylosing spondylitis patients with minor trauma face fatal cervical injury risks. Early diagnosis via CT scans is crucial for preventing severe outcomes like bradycardia and spinal cord compression.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) predisposes individuals to severe cervical injuries from minor trauma.
- Cervical spine fractures in AS patients can lead to catastrophic neurological deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a fatal case of cervical injury in an ankylosing spondylitis patient following minor trauma.
- To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and management of cervical trauma in AS.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 51-year-old woman with AS and minor trauma.
- Clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging (cervical spine computed tomography), and outcome analysis.
- Literature review on cervical trauma in ankylosing spondylitis.
Main Results:
- The patient developed severe bradycardia during positioning for an X-ray.
- Hyperextensive C4 fracture with cervical medulla compression was diagnosed.
- The patient died from hypoxic brain damage.
Conclusions:
- High clinical alertness is required for ankylosing spondylitis patients experiencing minor trauma and neck immobilization.
- Early diagnosis using cervical spine CT is essential for favorable outcomes.
- Understanding the mechanism of bradycardia in cervical trauma is critical.
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