Vertebral Artery Dissection as a Cause of Cervical Radiculopathy
Asian Spine Journal
;
: 335-338, 2013.
Article
in English
| WPRIM
| ID: wpr-98622
ABSTRACT
The acute onset of neck pain and arm weakness is most commonly due to cervical radiculopathy or inflammatory brachial plexopathy. Rarely, extracranial vertebral artery dissection may cause radiculopathy in the absence of brainstem ischemia. We describe a case of vertebral artery dissection presenting as cervical radiculopathy in a previously healthy 43-year-old woman who presented with proximal left arm weakness and neck pain aggravated by movement. Cervical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography revealed dissection of the left vertebral artery with an intramural hematoma compressing the left C5 and C6 nerve roots. Antiplatelet treatment was commenced, and full power returned after 2 months. Recognition of vertebral artery dissection on cervical MRI as a possible cause of cervical radiculopathy is important to avoid interventions within the intervertebral foramen such as surgery or nerve root sleeve injection. Treatment with antithrombotic agents is important to prevent secondary ischemic events.
Full text:
Available
Index:
WPRIM (Western Pacific)
Main subject:
Arm
/
Radiculopathy
/
Vertebral Artery
/
Brain Stem
/
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
/
Angiography
/
Neck Pain
/
Vertebral Artery Dissection
/
Brachial Plexus Neuropathies
/
Fibrinolytic Agents
Limits:
Adult
/
Female
/
Humans
Language:
English
Journal:
Asian Spine Journal
Year:
2013
Type:
Article
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