Painful torticollis due to tubercular atlantoaxial rotatory fixation: A case report

Abstract

Background: Tubercular atlantoaxial, rotary dislocation warranting fixation (AARF) is an extremely rare event. Case Description: AARF was suspected in a 23-year-old female with painful torticollis. When diagnostic studies documented unilateral destruction of the left lateral mass of the atlas, she underwent removal of the lateral mass, reduction of the deformity, and C1-C2 fusion/reconstruction utilizing an iliac bone graft. Laboratory tests and the pathologic surveys were all consistent with the diagnosis of underlying tuberculosis. Conclusion: We present a case of tubercular atlantoaxial, rotary dislocation (AARF) in a patient who warranted C1-C2 decompression, reduction, and fusion.