An atlas vertebra with a centrum? A case report of an abnormal atlas and axis

Abstract

This case report represents the finding of an abnormal atlas vertebra during dissection of 34 cadavers. The case which we describe appeared to have an atlas with a mass at a position similar to that of a centrum. This mass may have been a developmental abnormality of the centrum of the atlas or may have represented a congenital abnormality, known as the os odontoideum. Alternatively the abnormality may have been due to non-union of an odontoid fracture, with subsequent fusion to the atlas. The case report will discuss which of these three alternatives is more probable, and the embryology and phylogenesis of the atlas and axis, leading us to believe in a congenital hypothesis as an explanation for the malformation.