Keywords:
Inflammation, Technical aspects, Plain radiographic studies, MR, CT, Musculoskeletal spine
Authors:
H. Riahi1, M. Mechri1, M. Chelli Bouaziz1, M. F. Ladeb2; 1Tunis/TN, 2La Manouba/TN
DOI:
10.1594/essr2017/P-0262
Background
UPPER CERVICAL LIGAMENTS (fig 1)
Transverse ligament of the atlas runs posterior to the dens and attaches to the lateral tubercles of the atlas bilaterally
Synovial capsule is attached between the odontoid process and the transverse ligament.
Tectorial membrane and epidural fat are located dorsal to the transverse ligament
Alar ligament extends from the posterolateral aspect of the apex of the dens horizontally and laterally to the medial side of the occipital condyle
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic systemic inflammatory disorder affecting multiple organ system,
joints,
ligaments and bones.
It is the most common inflammatory disorder affecting the cervical spine.
Chronic synovits may result in bony erosion and ligamentous laxity leading to instability and subluxation.
Cervical spine involement occurs relatively early in the course of RA; Most patients demonstrate radiographic changes in the cervical spine within the first few years after diagnosis
PREDICTORS OF PARALYSIS
•Number of joints with erosion particularly in the hands,
wrists,
feet
•Older age at diagnosis
•Greater activity during the first five years
•Duration more than ten years