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Radiologic prevalence of advanced lateral C1-C2 osteoarthritis
1Department of Radiology, St Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, The Netherlands.
Spine
|December 31, 1997
Summary
Advanced atlantoaxial osteoarthritis is common in older adults, increasing with age. This degenerative condition can cause suboccipital pain and should be considered in elderly patients with these symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Previous research suggests a link between atlantoaxial osteoarthritis and suboccipital pain.
- The actual radiologic prevalence of this degenerative condition remains largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ascertain the radiologic prevalence of advanced lateral atlantoaxial osteoarthritis.
- To investigate the relationship between age and the incidence of advanced lateral atlantoaxial osteoarthritis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 355 patients' paranasal sinus radiographs.
- Evaluation of lateral C1-C2 (atlantoaxial) joints for signs of severe degeneration.
Main Results:
- Atlantoaxial osteoarthritis was identified in 4.8% of the study population.
- The prevalence of advanced degenerative changes in the lateral atlantoaxial joints increased significantly with age, from 5.4% in the sixth decade to 18.2% in the ninth decade.
Conclusions:
- Advanced degenerative changes in the lateral atlantoaxial joints are a potential cause of suboccipital neck pain.
- Clinicians should consider lateral atlantoaxial joint degeneration in the differential diagnosis for suboccipital pain in older patients.