Cranio-vertebral junction tuberculosis: Uncommon presentation of a common disease

J R Coll Physicians Edinb. 2024 Nov 29:14782715241302224. doi: 10.1177/14782715241302224. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Cranio-vertebral junction (CVJ) tuberculosis, although rare, contributes significantly to morbidity. We detail the case of a young woman manifesting symptoms such as headaches, neck pain and pronounced weight loss. Diagnostic confirmation was achieved through an integrated approach of clinical evaluation and imaging modalities. The patient was treated with anti-tubercular pharmacotherapy and mechanical stabilisation using a cervical collar. This regimen resulted in significant clinical improvement, illustrating the potential effectiveness of conservative management strategies in selected cases. CVJ tuberculosis represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, often necessitating clinic-radiological assessment and a spectrum of management strategies ranging from conservative medical therapy to surgical intervention.

Keywords: anti-tubercular therapy; craniovertebral junction; extra-pulmonary TB; musculoskeletal; tuberculosis.