Open AccessGrisel's Syndrome in an Adult After Endoscopic Nasopharyngectomy
Author(s) -
Chua Andy J. K.,
Tan Bernard W. S.,
Tan Tiong Yong,
Heah Harold H. W.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
laryngoscope investigative otolaryngology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2378-8038
DOI - 10.1002/lio2.298
Subject(s) - medicine , subluxation , neck pain , surgery , osteomyelitis , magnetic resonance imaging , atlanto axial joint , cervical spine , radiology , alternative medicine , pathology
Background Grisel's syndrome is rare in adults, and is characterized by nontraumatic atlanto‐axial subluxation secondary to infection. Here, we report a case of Grisel's syndrome occurring after endoscopic nasopharyngectomy. Methods A 67‐year‐old man complained of fever and neck pain with reduced lateral rotation after an endoscopic nasopharyngectomy for recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Flexion and extension X‐rays of the cervical spine demonstrated atlanto‐axial subluxation, and magnetic resonance imaging showed infective changes with cervical osteomyelitis. A diagnosis of Grisel's syndrome with cervical spine osteomyelitis was made. A later computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrated subluxation of C1 on C2, as well as the occipital‐C1 joint. Results The patient was treated with intravenous antibiotics and offered surgery for spinal stabilization, but declined. He remained well 15 months post‐op on a cervical collar with minimal pain and no neurologic deficits. Conclusion A high index of suspicion for Grisel's syndrome is suggested in patients who have neck pain with reduced range of motion postnasopharyngectomy, and imaging is useful in clinching the diagnosis. Level of Evidence 4