Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of the Upper Cervical Spine in a Child: A Case Report

Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are benign osteolytic lesion representing 15% of all primary spine tumors. We report a case of voluminous C2 ABCs in 13 years old girl. Clinical symptoms involved cervical pain followed by insidious swelling and stiffness in the back of the neck without any neurological symptoms. Radiology investigation and MRI showed posterolateral expanding trabeculated osteolytic lesion of C2 spinous process with no soft tissue or body involvement. Fluid levels were identified with no spinal cord development. Surgical biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of ABCs. A primary external stabilization by halo cast preceded en bloc surgical resection using a posterior approach. Follow up showed a progressive ossification of posterior elements without recurrence or instability.