A Rare Cause of Torticollis in Children: Atlantoaxial Rotatory Subluxation

Abstract

Torticollis is one of the common causes of admission to the emergency department among children which can make parents worried. This could be related to many traumatic and non-traumatic conditions. One of the rare causes of acute onset of torticollis is atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation, which is characterized by limitation of neck rotation, increased pain by movement. It is generally associated with a past trauma history. Although it is known as a temporary and self-resolving condition, if it is not diagnosed earlier it may lead to severe rotational deformity of the cervical spine. Therefore, detecting certain causes and providing proper treatment are highly important. Physical examination and history are usually enough to make the diagnosis, yet cervical X-ray and computed tomography scan can be considered for indefinite cases. Even though treatment options depend on symptoms and the patient's general status, conservative approach with cervical collar and anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended as a first step. We would like to present our case, a 13 year-old girl who has been diagnosed with atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation in our clinic to increase awareness of this condition which is often misdiagnosed in children.

Keywords

• atlantoaxial rotatory subluxation
• children
• torticollis
• pediatric emergency
• atlantoaksiyel rotatuar subluksasyon
• çocuk
• tortikolis
• pediatrik acil