Cervical Pott's Disease Presenting As Quadriplegia in a Young Patient: A Case Report

Cureus. 2023 Oct 13;15(10):e46949. doi: 10.7759/cureus.46949. eCollection 2023 Oct.

Abstract

Cervical Pott's disease, a form of spinal tuberculosis (TB), is a significant concern in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Early detection and treatment are critical to preventing complications like vertebral collapse. Clinical and radiological features of cervical Pott's disease can resemble other spinal conditions, posing diagnostic challenges. We present a case of a 28-year-old female who initially presented with quadriplegia, cervical instability, and high-grade fever. Through multidisciplinary collaboration and prompt intervention, the patient was diagnosed with cord compression syndrome secondary to a cervical abscess and probable cervical Pott's disease. Anti-tuberculosis treatment (ATT) and steroids were initiated, leading to significant improvement in symptoms and disease resolution. In summary, this case underscores the diagnostic challenge of cervical Pott's disease and the importance of imaging in TB diagnosis in resource-limited settings. The positive treatment response emphasizes early intervention's significance.

Keywords: cervical abscess; humans; pott’s disease; quadriplegia; spinal tuberculosis:; spine tuberculosis; young patient.

Publication types

  • Case Reports