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Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Chronic Spinal Cord Compression
Published on: May 7, 2019
Pathobiology of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
1Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Ann McLaren Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine, University of Cambridge, West Forvie Building, Forvie Site Box 213, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0SZ, UK.
Abstract:
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a common spinal cord disease caused by chronic mechanical compression of the spinal cord. The mechanism by which mechanical stress results in spinal cord injury is poorly understood. The most common mechanisms involved in the pathobiology of DCM include apoptosis, inflammation, and vascular changes leading to loss of neurons, axonal degeneration, and myelin changes. However, the exact pathophysiologic mechanisms of DCM are unclear. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of DCM is required for the development of treatments to improve outcomes. This review highlights the mechanisms of injury and pathology in DCM.
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