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Spontaneous atlantoaxial pyogenic arthritis surgically managed

Paloma Compes1, Patrick Rakotozanany, Henry Dufour

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Timone Hospital, 264 rue Saint Pierre, 13385, Marseille, France, paloma.compes@gmail.com.

European Spine Journal : Official Publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society
|May 20, 2014
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Septic arthritis of the cervical facet joints is rare but serious. Early diagnosis with MRI and prompt surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes in atlantoaxial joint infections.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious diseases
  • Spinal surgery
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Septic arthritis of the cervical facet joints is a rare condition.
  • Symptoms can be subtle, necessitating a high index of suspicion for timely diagnosis.

Observation:

  • A 75-year-old female presented with fever, neck stiffness, torticollis, and altered consciousness.
  • Imaging revealed atlantoaxial facet joint destruction with associated epidural and paraspinal abscesses.

Findings:

  • Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the diagnosis.
  • Surgical treatment involved posterior decompression and atlantoaxial fixation (Harms technique).
  • Targeted antibiotic therapy was administered concurrently.

Implications:

  • Early MRI is vital for diagnosing atlantoaxial septic arthritis and guiding treatment.
  • Prompt surgical intervention for severe infections improves patient prognosis.
  • This case highlights the importance of recognizing and managing this severe spinal infection.

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