Charcot Spinal Arthropathy-Induced Progression From Upper to Lower Motor Neuron Bowel Syndrome

Charcot spinal arthropathy is a progressively degenerative joint disorder of the vertebrae. Historically, it was a common consequence of tertiary syphilis. Currently, it is a rare complication of spinal cord injury (SCI). We present the case of a 28-year-old patient with paraplegia who developed progressive, neurogenic bowel dysfunction due to Charcot spinal arthropathy. Our patient had upper motor neuron bowel syndrome secondary to SCI which advanced to lower motor neuron bowel syndrome. Charcot spinal arthropathy should be considered as a possible cause for symptom progression in SCI patients. This case illustrates the connection between Charcot spine and lower motor neuron dysfunction in the setting of prior upper motor neuron dysfunction.