neurologic disorders
Craniocervical Junction Abnormalities
Key Points
Craniocervical junction abnormalities are congenital or acquired abnormalities of the occipital bone, foramen magnum, or first two cervical vertebrae that decrease the space for the lower brain stem and cervical cord. Suspect a craniocervical junction abnormality if patients have pain in the neck or occiput plus neurologic deficits referable to the lower brain stem, upper cervical spinal cord, or cerebellum. Diagnose craniocervical abnormalities using MRI or CT of the brain and upper spinal cord. Reduce and immobilize the compressed neural structures. Treat most patients with traction, immobilization, or, if reduction is unsuccessful, surgery. 