J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  1996 Jun;25(6):1308-1312.

A Case of Axis Spondylolysis Causing Quadriparesis: Case Report

• Kim HJ
• Choi CH
• Song GS
• Park DJ
• Cha SH
• Lee YW

Abstract

Cervical spondylolysis is an extremely rare abnomality of unknown etilogy, first described by Hadley. It is defined s a corticated cleft between the superior and inferior articular facets of the articular pillar, the cervical equivalent of the pars interarticularis in the lumbar spine. A 50-yar-old woman was presented with occipital headache, and pain in the upper neck region. Neurological examination revealed the patients inability to walk because of quadriparesis with mild hypesthesia in both hands and feet. The DTR was hyperactive and pathological reflexes, including Babinski's and Hoffman's, were positive bilaterally. CT showed the bilateral pars interarticularis defects and spinal canal stenosis. MRI revealed signal alteration on the upper spinal cord which was compromised due to the hypertrophied ligamentum flavum. Decompressive laminectomy of C2 was performed and the patient's neurological deficits had recovered to some extent and resulting to her ability to walk without assistance.

Keyword

Cervical spondylolysis; Quadriparesis; Upper spinal canal stenosis

MeSH Terms

Axis, Cervical Vertebra*
Constriction, Pathologic
Female
Foot
Hand
Headache
Humans
Hypesthesia
Laminectomy
Ligamentum Flavum
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Neck
Neurologic Examination
Quadriplegia*
Reflex
Spinal Canal
Spinal Cord
Spine
Spondylolysis*