[Atlantoid assimilation: malformation, compensation or deformity. Is it part of basilar invagination?]

Abstract

Introduction: atlas assimilation can occur alone or in association with other craniocervical junction malformations and deformities. The etiological and pathological mechanisms are not clear.

Case presentation: patient in her sixth decade of life, who was treated at the "Eugenio Espejo" Hospital, with asymmetric pyramidal symptoms after a low-energy kinetic fall. The condition completely reverted with conservative management. The patient is currently under periodic observation.

Conclusion: the atlas assimilation, a congenital malformation, often asymptomatic; it is part of an embryological compensation when it is associated with other malformations. The appearance of deformity is necessary to reach atlantoaxial instability that it is not early. The knowledge of the concepts and distinction of the craniocervical junction abnormalities allows to indicate the best treatment in order to obtain the most suitable results with the individualization of each case.