Infectious Disease Etiology and Craniocervical Issues

Craniocervical and Atlantoaxial issues are increasingly being identified as post-infectious sequelae. Below are several papers which begin to explain the etiology of neck issues related to infections.

Infections that Cause Cervical Deformities

5-20% of infections in the cervical spine cause cervical deformity (mainly kyphosis). Controversies exist surrounding infectious cervical deformities, including lack of clear definitions, which require further research. This paper outlines the connection between Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Brucellosis, and Staphylococcus aureus. The authors describe how early intervention is helpful for resolving cervical injuries under these circumstances.

Cervical Myelitis & Neurological Lyme Case Study

A patient reported neck pain and weakness after a bike accident. After clinicians found elevated WBCs in her CSF, they investigated further. Clinicians found that she tested positive for Borrelia and was infected in her nervous system. She confirmed that she had a bullseye rash in the past. Researchers treated her with antibiotics but no outcomes were reported.

Atlantoaxial Subluxation After COVID-19 Infection

This case study documents an instance of Atlantoaxial subluxation post-COVID infection. The subluxation was found via 3-D digital X-Ray. Treatment included use of cervical collar and KKT laser. Significant improvements in symptoms were observed at 13 days into treatment. The authors highlight that patients experiencing neck pain post-COVID might have spinal subluxations.