Cervical spondylotic myelopathy with reversible fasciculations in the lower extremities

Arch Neurol. 1977 Dec;34(12):774-6. doi: 10.1001/archneur.1977.00500240062011.

Abstract

Cervical spondylosis and motor system disease can appear in a similar manner with upper and lower motor neuron signs. Four patients with spasticity and fasciculations in the upper and lower extremities had surgical decompression for cervical spondylosis. Postoperative examinations at 24 to 48 months, including electromyographic studies, disclosed neurological improvement in all patients and loss of fasciculations in the lower extremities in three. Three mechanisms by which cervical spondylosis might cause fasciculations in the lower extremities are vascular insufficiency, cord traction, and denervation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Humans
  • Leg*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Muscle Contraction*
  • Neck
  • Neuromuscular Diseases / etiology
  • Neuromuscular Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / etiology
  • Spinal Cord Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Spondylitis / complications
  • Spondylitis / physiopathology*
  • Syndrome