Atlantoaxial dislocation related to instilling eyedrops in a patient with Down's syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
To alert ophthalmologists of the risk of hyperextending the neck of patients with Down's syndrome while holding them to instill eyedrops.


METHODS
We describe a case of atlantoaxial dislocation related to instilling eyedrops in a 6-year-old girl with Down's syndrome.


RESULTS
Early recognition of the problem allowed prompt treatment and partial recovery of the patient.


CONCLUSIONS
Examination and clinical maneuvers in a child with Down's syndrome require gentleness and avoidance of hyperextension of the neck to prevent spinal cord injury.
Nucci
P
P
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Scientific Institute S Raffaele Hospital, University of Milan, Italy, pnucci@micronet.it
de Pellegrin
M
M
Brancato
R
R
D001268:Atlanto-Axial Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D002648:Child; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003519:Cyclopentolate / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004314:Down Syndrome / Q000150:complications*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D011859:Radiography
D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions; D003519:Cyclopentolate