CERVICAL MYELOPATHY DUE TO CERVICAL DISC HERNIATION A CASE REPORT
Journal
Journal of Morphological Sciences
Date Issued
2026-02-23
Author(s)
Stoshevski, Bojan
Nikoloska, Sofija
Nikoloski, Marko
Nancheva Bogoevska, Andrea
DOI
10.55302/JMS2691103ds
Abstract
Cervical myelopathy is a progressive degenerative disorder resulting from spinal cord compression,
most commonly due to spondylotic changes and intervertebral disc herniation. It presents with a wide
spectrum of neurological deficits, including walking disturbance, limb weakness, sensory impairment, and
upper motor neuron signs. Early recognition is essential, as advanced disease may lead to irreversible
neurological damage. We present the case of a 63-year-old woman with progressive quadriparesis, walking
impairment, and sensory disturbances following minor trauma. Neurological examination revealed upper
motor neuron signs and intrinsic hand muscle atrophy. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine
demonstrated multilevel degenerative disc disease with severe spinal canal stenosis and spinal cord
compression, accompanied by intramedullary signal changes consistent with compressive myelopathy.
Despite neurosurgical indication for operative treatment, the patient declined surgery and was managed
conservatively with physical therapy, resulting in partial clinical improvement. This case highlights the
importance of thorough clinical evaluation and neuroimaging in the diagnosis of cervical myelopathy and
underscores the need for timely recognition and appropriate management to prevent long-term disability
most commonly due to spondylotic changes and intervertebral disc herniation. It presents with a wide
spectrum of neurological deficits, including walking disturbance, limb weakness, sensory impairment, and
upper motor neuron signs. Early recognition is essential, as advanced disease may lead to irreversible
neurological damage. We present the case of a 63-year-old woman with progressive quadriparesis, walking
impairment, and sensory disturbances following minor trauma. Neurological examination revealed upper
motor neuron signs and intrinsic hand muscle atrophy. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine
demonstrated multilevel degenerative disc disease with severe spinal canal stenosis and spinal cord
compression, accompanied by intramedullary signal changes consistent with compressive myelopathy.
Despite neurosurgical indication for operative treatment, the patient declined surgery and was managed
conservatively with physical therapy, resulting in partial clinical improvement. This case highlights the
importance of thorough clinical evaluation and neuroimaging in the diagnosis of cervical myelopathy and
underscores the need for timely recognition and appropriate management to prevent long-term disability