Display Settings:

Format

Send to:

Choose Destination

    Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2004 Feb 15;29(4):E75-8.

    Ossification of the transverse atlantal ligament associated with fluorosis: a report of two cases and review of the literature.

    Wang W, Kong L, Zhao H, Jia Z.

    Spinal Surgery Department, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin City, People's Republic of China. wangwwb@yahoo.com.cn

    STUDY DESIGN: Two cases of ossification of the transverse atlantal ligament (OTAL) are reported, and the literature is reviewed. OBJECTIVE: To report two cases of OTAL, which share fluorosis as a possible etiologic link. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: OTAL, a rare phenomenon, may cause upper cervical canal stenosis and spastic quadriparesis. However, the incidence, etiology, and the best therapeutic options are currently unclear. METHODS: Two cases are reported. Included are pertinent history, physical examination, radiographic evaluation, nonsurgical interventions, and outcomes. The available literature is also reviewed. RESULTS: On systemic examination, these two cases were found to have ossification of many ligaments and interosseous membranes, i.e., the atlantal transverse ligament, posterior longitudinal ligament, and interosseous membranes of ribs, forearm, and leg. These findings were coupled with a history of high fluoride intake and dental fluorosis; the diagnosis of fluorosis was made. After 2 weeks of treatment with halo ring traction, and protection and stabilization with a hard cervical collar, the clinical symptoms significantly improved. CONCLUSION: The incidence of OTAL may be not as rare as has been thought. Although the complete etiology of OTAL is not known, fluorosis may be one of the etiologic factors related to OTAL, as well as the ossification of other ligaments and interosseous membranes. Nonsurgical treatment may be safe and effective.

    PMID: 15094549 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

    Supplemental Content

    Patient drug information

    • Fluoride (ACT®, APF Gel®, Control Rx®, ...)

      Fluoride is used to prevent tooth decay. It is taken up by teeth and helps to strengthen teeth, resist acid, and block the cavity-forming action of bacteria. Fluoride usually is prescribed for children and adults whose h...