Delayed Cervical Vertebral Body Osteoradionecrosis in a Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Patient – Case Report

Abstract

High dose radiotherapy is a treatment for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), but can result in radiation-induced changes to the cervical spine, which may be difficult to recognize. Pathological fractures occurring after radiation therapy for soft tissue tumors are rare. In this context, we report a rare case of delayed Osteoradionecrosis of a cervical vertebral body (C5) causing myeloradiculopathy. The patient, a 54-year-old man, received radical radiotherapy for NPC 10 years previously. Anterior decompression and stabilization with internal fixation was performed. Pathology reported necrotic tissue and no evidence of malignancy. Postoperatively, the patient’s neck pain improved, and he recovery muscle power in all four extremities. Early diagnosis is essential for this curable condition. Emergency surgical intervention for decompression and stabilization with internal fixation may result in complete neurological recovery.