An atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation secondary to a parapharyngeal abscess

Grisel's syndrome secondary to deep neck infection is rare with only four cases secondary to retropharyngeal abscess in the posterior pharyngeal space reported.1 –3 However, no cases secondary to parapharyngeal abscess in the lateral pharyngeal space have been reported. Here we describe a case of Grisel's syndrome with non-traumatic atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation (AARS) due to hematogenous spread of a parapharyngeal space infection to the cervical spine , with hyperemia and abnormal relaxation of the transverse ligament of the atlantoaxial joint.

Source: Pediatrics and Neonatology - January 21, 2018 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Authors: Hao-Yuan Lee, Chyi-Liang Chen, Cheng-Hsun Chiu Tags: Images Source Type: research