Increased MRI signal intensity in association with myelopathy and cervical instability: case report and review of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Increased T2-weighted signal intensity in patients with cervical myelopathy has been extensively reviewed in the literature. A variety of etiologies with similar MRI appearances have been described; attempt at correlation of MRI findings with clinical presentation and outcomes after treatment has led to a limited consensus.


METHODS
We present a case of cervical myelopathy with associated hyperintense T2-weighted signal characteristics, secondary to cervical spondylosis and instability.


RESULTS
Rapid resolution of radiographic abnormalities after surgical decompression and fusion was noted. Clinical improvement did not parallel radiographic resolution.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings are important in considering the pathophysiology of MRI changes in cervical myelopathy.
Ratliff
J
J
Department of Neurosurgery, Ochsner Clinic and Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
Voorhies
R
R
D000368:Aged; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D019299:Decompression, Surgical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007593:Joint Instability / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011859:Radiography; D013118:Spinal Cord Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D013123:Spinal Fusion; D016896:Treatment Outcome