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A Neuronal Apoptosis Model induced by Spinal Cord Compression in Rat
Published on: June 29, 2021
A case of recurrent spinal cord compression at craniocervical junction due to type IV mucopolysaccharidosis
Jun Hashimoto1, Toshinari Kawasaki1, Tamaki Kobayashi1
1Department of Spinal Neurosurgery, Kyoto Katsura Hospital, Kyoto, Japan.
Background:
Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal genetic storage disorder caused by the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans in tissues and organs. A 10-month-old male with MPS VI had originally undergone foramen magnum decompression (FMD)/C1 followed by lifelong enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). At age 15, the patient underwent successful surgical treatment for retro-odontoid disease and recurrent cranio-cervical junction (CCJ) stenosis through a C1-C3 laminectomy and expansive duroplasty.
Case Description:
A 10-month-old male with MPS VI and brain stem/spinal cord compression originally underwent a cervical FMD/C1 laminectomy. Despite ERT administration, signs of gait disturbances and myelopathy recurred before 1 year of age. At age 15, both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a retro-odontoid mass causing foramen magnum stenosis/upper cervical cord compression. Following an extended FMD that included a C1-C3 laminectomy and expansive duroplasty, his gait disturbance gradually improved.
Conclusion:
Patients with MPS VI may experience recurrent CCJ stenosis and spinal cord compression despite the early initiation of ERT.
Insights
Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI) patients may require surgical intervention for cranio-cervical junction (CCJ) stenosis, even with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). This case highlights successful surgical decompression for recurrent CCJ stenosis in an MPS VI patient.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Neurology
Background:
- Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPS VI) is a genetic disorder causing glycosaminoglycan accumulation.
- Early enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is standard for MPS VI patients.
- Cranio-cervical junction (CCJ) stenosis is a known complication of MPS VI.
Observation:
- A 10-month-old male with MPS VI underwent foramen magnum decompression (FMD)/C1 laminectomy.
- Recurrent myelopathy and gait disturbances occurred despite ERT.
- At age 15, imaging revealed a retro-odontoid mass causing CCJ stenosis.
Findings:
- The patient underwent an extended FMD (C1-C3 laminectomy and expansive duroplasty) for retro-odontoid disease.
- Surgical decompression led to gradual improvement in gait disturbances.
- This demonstrates the potential need for surgical intervention in recurrent CCJ stenosis.
Implications:
- Recurrent CCJ stenosis can occur in MPS VI patients despite ERT.
- Surgical management, including extended FMD, can be effective for severe CCJ stenosis.
- This case underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and tailored treatment strategies for MPS VI.
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