A nodular calcification of the alar ligament simulating a fracture in the craniovertebral junction

AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2006 Oct;27(9):1962-3.

Abstract

We report a case of an incidental nodular calcification of the alar ligament simulating a fracture in the craniovertebral junction of a previously healthy 24-year-old man. Three-dimensional CT and MR imaging revealed a 7.2 x 7.6 x 4.0 mm nodular calcification in the right alar ligament with normal adjacent bony structures. Serial cervical dynamic radiographs and open-mouth views showed that the cervical spine was stable without any change in the calcification.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain Concussion / diagnosis
  • Calcinosis / diagnosis*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted*
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional*
  • Ligaments, Articular / pathology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Male
  • Occipital Bone / injuries*
  • Occipital Bone / pathology
  • Odontoid Process / injuries*
  • Odontoid Process / pathology
  • Orbital Fractures / diagnosis
  • Skull Fractures / diagnosis
  • Spinal Fractures / diagnosis*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*