Atraumatic odontoid fractures in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
BACKGROUND
Instability of the cervical spine is a common problem in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The natural course of rheumatoid arthritis in the cervical spine is well documented. However, the true prevalence of occult fractures of the odontoid process in patients with rheumatoid arthritis is not known.


OBJECTIVE
To draw attention to the possibility of occult, atraumatic fractures of the odontoid process in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.


METHODS
We report on two cases with previously unrecognized fractures of the odontoid process.


METHODS
In this case series, we review the individual radiographic findings and clinical observations in two rheumatoid patients in whom a fracture of the odontoid process was diagnosed.


RESULTS
Each one of these two rheumatoid patients had an unrecognized fracture of the odontoid process without any prior history of trauma. Their fracture was identified serendipitously during workup for neck pain.


CONCLUSIONS
Occult, atraumatic fractures of the odontoid process may be found in patients with long-standing rheumatoid arthritis. This injury should be suspected if previously asymptomatic patients complain about new onset of neck pain without significant trauma.
Lewandrowski
Kai-Uwe
KU
Center for Advanced Spinal Surgery, Southwest Orthopaedic Surgery Specialists, PLC, 3395 N Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA. lewandk@comcast.net
Park
Paul P
PP
Baron
Jeffrey M
JM
Curtin
Stephen L
SL
D000368:Aged; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D005598:Fractures, Spontaneous / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019547:Neck Pain / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D009809:Odontoid Process / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000293:injuries*; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed