PA Anatomy: CN/spine: Case 3

The lower part of the cervical spine in this patient seems to be fused into one solid bony column. This is seen in an inflammatory condition called 'ankylosing spondylitis', and can cause considerable pain and limitation of motion. These patients are also at risk for fractures and severe injuries after minor trauma because their spines are not normally flexible.

This is a lateral radiograph of the cervical spine. The area of fusion is shown in yellow, with small, narrowed intervertebral discs in blue