Altano-axial subluxation with torticollis secondary to Langerhans cell histocytosis

Publication date: Available online 31 July 2017 Source:Interdisciplinary Neurosurgery Author(s): Joshua Y. Chua, Ji Min Ling, Derrick W.Q. Lian, Mei Yoke Chan, David C.Y. Low, Sharon Y.Y. Low Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis is a rare disease featuring aberrant proliferation of dendritic cells that can infiltrate the bony skeleton. The authors report a case of six-year-old female presenting with torticollis. She was found to have extensive lytic LCH lesions in the cranio-cervical junction, causing atlanto-axial rotatory subluxation. Decision was made for a non-surgical approach to treat the patient. She was placed in a Halo brace, and given concomitant chemotherapy. Post-treatment imaging demonstrated near-complete reconstitution of the skeleton affected by LCH. This case highlights the feasibility of non-surgical treatment in selected LCH patients at high-risk of spinal instability.
Source: Interdisciplinary Neurosurgery - Category: Neurosurgery Source Type: research