Multilevel paediatric idiopathic intervertebral disc calcification: a case study

Authors

  • Editorial Office
  • J P Grey Stellenbosch University
  • C A Blake Tygerberg Hospital

Keywords:

multiple paediatric idiopathic intervertebral disc calcifications, torticollis, nucleus pulposus, annulus fibrosis, calcification

Abstract

Paediatric idiopathic intervertebral disc calcification (PIIDC) is a rare, mostly self-limiting condition in children that was first described by Baron in 1924. The aetiology is unknown and to date fewer than 400 cases have been described. PIIDC is characterised by calcifications mainly affecting the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disc. Most often lesions are located within the lower cervical spine, followed by the thoracic spine. The most common reported symptoms include low grade fever, localised tenderness, torticollis and decreased range of motion of the spine in the affected region. We present a case of multiple level idiopathic intervertebral calcifications in a 12-year-old male.
Level of evidence: Level 5

Author Biographies

J P Grey, Stellenbosch University

MBChB

Orthopaedic Registrar

Stellenbosch University

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery

Tygerberg Hospital

Western Cape

C A Blake, Tygerberg Hospital

BSc, MBChB, MMed (Ortho) UFS

Consultant

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery

Tygerberg Hospital

Western Cape

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Published

2018-05-02