Juvenile intervertebral disk calcification: a cause of painful torticollis

Abstract

Juvenile intervertebral disk calcification (JIDC) is a benign, self-limited condition of unknown etiology. Children with this condition usually present with painful torticollis, fever, and neck motion abnormalities. Cervical spine radiographs demonstrate calcification in the nucleus pulposus region of intervertebral disks. The clinical symptoms usually abate in 2–3 days with supportive treatment, while disk calcification takes approximately 6 months to resolve. Definitive diagnosis is possible on the basis of clinical history and radiographic findings. Prompt diagnosis can prevent unnecessary investigations and hospital stay. We present a case of JIDC to highlight this rare but important condition.