Open AccessAtlantoaxial subluxation as a complication of early ankylosing spondylitis
Author(s) -
Sorin Steven,
Askari Ali,
Moskowitz Roland W.
Publication year - 1979
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780220309
Subject(s) - ankylosing spondylitis , medicine , subluxation , complication , surgery , ligament , cervical spine , pathology , alternative medicine
Atlantoaxial subluxation is uncommon in ankylosing spondylitis, especially early in the course of the disease. Two patients are described in whom atlantoaxial subluxation occurred early in the course of otherwise typical ankylosing spondylitis. The presumed mechanism is localized synovitis producing laxity or rupture of the transverse ligament. Cervical roentgenograms in maximal flexion and extension are necessary to evaluate both the degree of subluxation and the risk of cord compression.