Calcification of a cervical intervertebral disc in a child – a case report and review of literature

Abstract

Introduction We report a case of calcification of a cervical intervertebral disk in a child. This is a rare condition, and has been described in about 400 cases worldwide. Children affected by it present with the onset of pain, muscle spasm, and the presence of calcification of a intervertebral disk on radiography. Our objective was to present a case of sudden onset of pain in the neck and torticollis.

Case outline In our case, the condition was diagnosed after trauma, presented with neck pain and spasm of the right sternocleidomastoid. Initial neck radiography was done, and after identifying the calcification in front of C4 and C5 vertebral bodies, CT analysis was conducted. When it was concluded that there is no compression on spine nerve roots, conservative course of treatment was followed. The child had full regression of symptoms after two weeks.

Conclusion Emergency personnel should bear in mind that, even though radiographical finding of a calcification shadow in front of the spine may raise concern, the nature of this disorder is benign in most cases, and responds very well to conservative treatment.

Keywords: calcification; intervertebral disk; neck pain; torticollis