Damaged ligaments at the craniocervical junction presenting as an extradural tumour: a differential diagnosis in the elderly. Issue 9 (September 1991)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Crockard, H A; Sett, P; Geddes, J F; Stevens, J M; Kendall, B E; Pringle, J A
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 54:Issue 9(1991)
• Page Start: 817
• Page End: 821
• Publication Date: 1991-09
• Subjects: Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.54.9.817
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : An extradural mass at the craniocervical junction causing progressive neurological disability in five elderly patients is described. The lesion, which might be confused with a meningioma or other tumour, is composed of amorphous degenerate fibrocartilaginous material and could be due to degeneration of the ligaments responsible for atlanto-axial stability. Recognition of the condition early is important as the patient's clinical condition will deteriorate without decompression. Anterior transoral removal is relatively simple, unlike surgery for tumours in the area, and will not destabilise the craniovertebral junction. It is likely that a proportion of these lesions are undetected, misdiagnosed or untreated to the detriment of the patient.