Atlantoaxial Instability as a Cause of Craniovertebral and Cervical Spinal Alterations and Dorsal Kyphoscoliosis

Abstract

Background: Musculoskeletal and neural alterations secondary to chronic atlantoaxial instability are evaluated.

Case description: An 11-year-old girl presented with major symptoms of progressively worsening dorsal kyphoscoliosis (spinal kyphoscoliosis [SKS]). In addition to dorsal SKS, investigations revealed multiple craniovertebral and cervical spinal musculoskeletal abnormalities, Chiari formation, and syringomyelia. Dynamic imaging revealed atlantoaxial instability. Atlantoaxial stabilization resulted in rapid improvement in SKS, regression of tonsillar herniation, and resolution of syrinx.

Conclusions: The experience with the case showcases wide ranged spinal consequences as a result of chronic atlantoaxial instability.

Keywords: Atlantoaxial instability; Chiari formation; Scoliosis; Syringomyelia.