Atlantoaxial subluxation of the C1/C2 vertebrae in the pediatric patient: A case study

Abstract

A nine-year-old male presenting with neck pain and head tilt was referred for neurosurgical evaluation. According to the referring pediatrician, the head tilt and torticollis had persisted for the previous three weeks. Of note, a prodromal upper respiratory viral illness was reported, with erythema of the left mastoid area that had resolved after a few days of conservative management. The boy’s family had attempted neck massages and heat compresses without resolution of the head tilt. On examination in the office, the child was well developed and in mild distress.