J Korean Neurosurg Soc.  2010 Jun;47(6):458-460.

Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Causing Cervical Myelopathy in a Child

• Jang KS
• Jung YY
• Kim SW

Abstract

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), a disorder of the phagocytic system, is a rare condition. Moreover, spinal involvement causing myelopathy is even rare and unusual. Here, we report a case of atypical LCH causing myelopathy, which was subsequently treated by corpectemy and fusion. A 5-year-old boy presented with 3 weeks of severe neck pain and limited neck movement accompanying right arm motor weakness. CT scans revealed destruction of C7 body and magnetic resonance imaging showed a tumoral process at C7 with cord compression. Interbody fusion using cervical mesh packed by autologus iliac bone was performed. Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of LCH. After the surgery, the boy recovered from radiating pain and motor weakness of right arm. Despite the rarity of the LCH in the cervical spine, it is necessary to maintain our awareness of this condition. When neurologic deficits are present, operative treatment should be considered.

Keyword

Langerhans cell histiocytosis; Cervical spine; Cord compression

MeSH Terms

Arm
Child
Histiocytosis, Langerhans-Cell
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Neck
Neck Pain
Neurologic Manifestations
Preschool Child
Spinal Cord Diseases
Spine