Imaging review in case of cervical spine tuberculosis

Abstract

Tuberculosis of the cervical spine differs from other vertebral localizations by its extreme rarity, the clinical images are very diversified, the radiological measurements allow a good diagnostic orientation and specifically the MRI which allows a multi-planar study of the various lesions. Only bacteriological evidence can confirm the diagnosis. The treatment is based on a 12-month antituberculosis multidrug therapy and much debate upon the surgical indication. History: In this case, the patient presented with pain in cervical region with restricted movements of the neck and pain on examination at the mobilization of the cervical spine. Biopsy of the cervical lymph node had already been done which was positive for Koch’s etiology. Discussion: Cervical CT scan and a cervical MRI were performed, showing changes of spondylitis involving C1-C3 vertebrae with adjacent large loculated abscess in prevertebral and bilateral paravertebral regions and cord compression at the level of C2 vertebrae. Findings favoring an infective etiology. Conclusion: Cervical spine tuberculosis is considered a catastrophic disease due to the associated probability of spinal cord compression and quadriplegia. This emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis in the management of cervical tuberculosis with radiological and clinicopathological correlation.