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The intriguing history of vertebral fusion anomalies: the Klippel–Feil syndrome

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Abstract

Introduction

Our knowledge and understanding of vertebral fusion, defined and eponymously known as Klippel–Feil syndrome in the early 1900s, have a long history. This uncommon finding has been identified as early as 500 B.C. in an Egyptian mummy. Many more examples of spinal vertebra fusion have been described by Greek historians and recovered by archeologists demonstrating this entity’s rich history.

Conclusions

Klippel–Feil syndrome is a rare skeletal anomaly characterized by abnormal fusion of two or more vertebrae. With the advent of newer molecular technology and genetic discoveries, we now have a better understanding of the etiology and possible pathogenesis of this disease.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George’s University, Grenada

    Erfanul Saker & Marios Loukas

  2. 37-15 78th Street, Jackson Heights, New York City, NY, 11372, USA

    Erfanul Saker

  3. Swedish Neuroscience Institute, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA

    Rod J. Oskouian

  4. Seattle Science Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA

    R. Shane Tubbs

Authors
  1. Erfanul Saker
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  2. Marios Loukas
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  3. Rod J. Oskouian
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  4. R. Shane Tubbs
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Correspondence to Erfanul Saker.

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Saker, E., Loukas, M., Oskouian, R.J. et al. The intriguing history of vertebral fusion anomalies: the Klippel–Feil syndrome. Childs Nerv Syst 32, 1599–1602 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-016-3173-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00381-016-3173-4

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