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Arthritis of the cervical spine
1Department of Internal Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University College of Medicine, Lankenau Hospital, Philadelphia, PA.
The Mount Sinai Journal of Medicine, New York
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Neck pain is common, especially in those over 50. Osteoarthritis is the most frequent cause, potentially leading to nerve compression and spinal issues.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics and Rheumatology
- Radiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Neck pain frequently presents without neurological signs, posing a diagnostic challenge to identify underlying lesions.
- Cervical spine involvement is common radiographically, particularly in individuals over 50 years of age.
- Osteoarthritis is the predominant rheumatic condition affecting the cervical spine, excluding soft-tissue inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the common causes of neck pain and diagnostic considerations.
- To highlight the role of osteoarthritis in cervical spine pathology.
- To emphasize the importance of assessing the atlantoaxial joint for neurological compromise.
Main Methods:
- Review of common cervical spine pathologies causing neck pain.
- Discussion of osteoarthritis as a primary rheumatic cause.
- Emphasis on radiographic and clinical assessment.
Main Results:
- Osteoarthritis is the most common rheumatic disease of the cervical spine.
- Sequelae include radiculopathy and myelopathy due to impingement.
- Other spinal diseases like DISH, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis can also be implicated.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of neck pain requires identifying definable lesions, even without initial neurological findings.
- Osteoarthritis is a key consideration in cervical spine disease, with potential for neurological compromise.
- Evaluation of the atlantoaxial joint integrity is crucial for preventing neurologic deficits.