Progressive anterior vertebral fusion: A report of three cases

Abstract

We report a series of three cases of progressive anterior vertebral fusion diagnosed and monitored in our establishment. This very rare condition was discovered in young children while exploring a spinal deformity. With X-rays of the thoracolumbar spine it was possible to make a positive diagnosis and ensure follow-up. The radiographic semeiotics are characteristic and combine anterior pinching of the disc, well-delimited erosion of the anterior vertebral corners and anterior then posterior intervertebral ankylosis. MRI is very useful for assessing the extent of the intervertebral ankylosis and the condition of the residual discs, without irradiation. The condition develops over several months or years. Conservative treatment is usually sufficient.

Clinical outcomes of surgical treatment for Copenhagen syndrome: a case series

“…The differential diagnosis of CS is broad and includes Scheuermann’s disease, congenital kyphosis type II, anterior limbus vertebra, ankylosing spondylitis, and diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis in adults, also thalidomide embryopathy in children [ 5 ]. Clinical history, imaging studies such as thoracolumbar spine X-ray and MRI, and laboratory studies can significantly narrow this differential diagnosis [ 6 ]. MRI can detect early changes in PNAVF and it also reflects the disease activity [ 7 ], but in some cases it is controversial.…”

Presentation and outcome of patients treated non-operatively or operatively for Copenhagen Disease: a 30-year experience

“…In the current literature, only 66 cases have been described, mostly as case reports [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17], with the largest series from the University Hospital of Copenhagen, lending its name to this condition [1]. However, Mosenthal was the first to fully describe this condition in 1931 [18].…”

Clinical Images: Progressive Noninfectious Anterior Vertebral Fusion (Copenhagen Syndrome) in a 15‐Year‐Old Boy

“…The process may affect one level or several contiguous or noncontiguous levels, and most frequently involves the thoracolumbar junction. Often referred to as “Copenhagen syndrome” , PAVS is a rare spine disorder mostly seen in childhood. The disease may be asymptomatic or may present with mild pain or stiffness.…”