Grisel syndrome: a delayed presentation in an asymptomatic patient

J Laryngol Otol. 2007 Aug;121(8):800-2. doi: 10.1017/S0022215107006263. Epub 2007 Feb 13.

Abstract

Grisel syndrome is a rare condition characterised by atlanto-axial subluxation following an inflammatory process in the head and neck region. It occurs more commonly in children and usually presents with cervical pain and torticollis, in addition to symptoms of the primary infection. We present the case of an asymptomatic 78-year-old man who was incidentally found to have atlanto-axial subluxation on a routine follow-up computed tomography scan, three months following successful treatment of a skull base infection. This case emphasises the importance of appropriate follow-up imaging for patients with skull base infections, even if they respond clinically to medical treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Atlanto-Axial Joint / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations / diagnostic imaging*
  • Joint Dislocations / etiology
  • Male
  • Osteomyelitis / complications
  • Osteomyelitis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Skull Base / diagnostic imaging
  • Syndrome
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed