BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Multiple lytic lesions of the spine usually represent metastatic or infectious disease processes. PURPOSE: To describe an extremely rare presentation of an uncommon disease process. STUDY DESIGN/ SETTING: Case report/university hospital. METHODS: We describe the management of a patient who presented with a pathological fracture of C3 and multiple lytic lesions of the cervical spine. RESULTS: After reconstructive surgery, the final pathological diagnosis was fibrous dysplasia. CONCLUSION: Fibrous dysplasia is rarely seen in the cervical spine and may mimic other pathological processes. The surgical and medical management of spinal fibrous dysplasia is described.
BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Multiple lytic lesions of the spine usually represent metastatic or infectious disease processes. PURPOSE: To describe an extremely rare presentation of an uncommon disease process. STUDY DESIGN/ SETTING: Case report/university hospital. METHODS: We describe the management of a patient who presented with a pathological fracture of C3 and multiple lytic lesions of the cervical spine. RESULTS: After reconstructive surgery, the final pathological diagnosis was fibrous dysplasia. CONCLUSION:Fibrous dysplasia is rarely seen in the cervical spine and may mimic other pathological processes. The surgical and medical management of spinal fibrous dysplasia is described.