Incidental Intraspinal Tumor Detection during Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome : A case report

ABSTRACT

Differential diagnosis of posterior neck and occipital pain is difficult based on symptoms and physical examination only. We report a case of patient who complained of pain in the posterior neck and occiput, with the initial diagnosis of myofascial pain syndrome, but who did not improve with conventional treatments. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a cervical intraspinal tumor, and the patient developed subsequent motor weakness and sensory changes. Comprehensive diagnostic approaches are strongly recommended when the patient manifests symptoms unresponsive to treatment.