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Pott's Disease Resulting in Complete Cervical Vertebral Destruction
Jeffrey H Walden1, Jeremy Schmitz2
1University of North Carolina Department of Family Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC; Cone Health Family Medicine Residency, Greensboro, NC.
Wilderness & Environmental Medicine
|January 24, 2018
Summary
Skeletal tuberculosis (Pott's disease) can affect military veterans working in endemic regions. A case report highlights a veteran with severe neck pain and neurological symptoms, ultimately diagnosed with advanced spinal tuberculosis.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Skeletal tuberculosis, or Pott's disease, is a well-documented condition.
- While common in endemic areas, it can affect individuals with prolonged exposure, including military personnel.
Observation:
- A military veteran presented with progressive neck pain and bilateral upper extremity paresthesias.
- Initial diagnosis suggested cervical disc disease, delaying definitive treatment.
Findings:
- Cervical spine radiographs revealed complete destruction of vertebral bodies.
- The cause was confirmed as spinal tuberculosis, a rare presentation in this demographic.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering tuberculosis in differential diagnoses for spinal conditions in at-risk populations.
- Emphasizes the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe neurological complications.