Crowned Dens Syndrome

Abstract

We believe that crowned dens syndrome is more common than previously recognized, especially in elderly patients. It is diagnosed on the basis of acute and severe neck pain; marked restriction of neck motion, particularly in rotation; the presence of inflammatory indicators, such as an elevated C-reactive protein level; calcium deposition around the odontoid process detected by computed tomography; no history of trauma; and the exclusion of other inflammatory diseases and tumors. Prednisolone and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in combination are the recommended treatment for symptom relief.