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Metastasis to the occipitocervical junction: A case report and review of the literature.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  20657697     Owner:  NLM     Status:  In-Data-Review    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
BACKGROUND: The management of metastatic spinal disease is generally considered palliative, as the progression of systemic disease is likely to hinder survival. Although the occurrence of C1-C2 instability due to metastatic disease is not uncommon and thus treatment options have been well-defined, craniocervical instability due to lesions occurring at the junction of the occiput and atlas is more rare, and treatment for metastasis to this region is less well-defined.
CASE DESCRIPTION: We present a patient with non-small-cell lung cancer metastatic to the atlanto-occipital facet joint complex. A drastic improvement in the presenting debilitating mechanical neck pain was noted following an occipitocervical fusion. A literature review of published cases of metastases to the occipitocervical junction was conducted along with treatment options.
CONCLUSIONS: The atlanto-occipital facet joint is a rare site of metastatic disease. Destruction of this joint can lead to significant neck pain secondary to instability. Spinal fusion may afford significant and rapid resolution of these symptoms, and should be considered in the management of patients-even those with end-stage oncologic disease.
Authors:
Risheng Xu; Daniel M Sciubba; Ziya L Gokaslan; Ali Bydon
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Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article     Date:  2010-05-31
Journal Detail:
Title:  Surgical neurology international     Volume:  1     ISSN:  2152-7806     ISO Abbreviation:  Surg Neurol Int     Publication Date:  2010  
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2010-07-26     Completed Date:  -     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  101535836     Medline TA:  Surg Neurol Int     Country:  India    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  16     Citation Subset:  -    
Affiliation:
Medical Scientist Training Program, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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