Infection-related spontaneous atlantoaxial dislocation in an adult. Case report.
This paper reports the third described case of infection-related atlantoaxial subluxation in an adult. Like most of the similar cases seen in the pediatric literature, this case was associated with a parapharyngeal beta-hemolytic streptococcal abscess. Based upon this experience, the authors advocate intravenous antibiotic therapy and 1) immediate reduction followed by application of a halo brace; 2) immobilization in a halo brace for at least 3 months; and 3) a C1-2 wiring and fusion procedure for patients who fail this trial of conservative therapy.
D000038:Abscess / Q000150:complications*; D000328:Adult; D001268:Atlanto-Axial Joint; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D010608:Pharyngeal Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000150:complications*