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Establishing Diagnostic Criteria for Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [AO Spine RECODE-DCM Research Priority Number 3].

Published version
Peer-reviewed

Type

Article

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Authors

Hilton, Bryn 
Gardner, Emma L 
Jiang, Zhilin 
Tetreault, Lindsay 
Wilson, Jamie RF 

Abstract

STUDY DESIGN: Narrative review. OBJECTIVES: To discuss the importance of establishing diagnostic criteria in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM), including factors that must be taken into account and challenges that must be overcome in this process. METHODS: Literature review summarising current evidence of establishing diagnostic criteria for DCM. RESULTS: Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM) is characterised by a degenerative process of the cervical spine resulting in chronic spinal cord dysfunction and subsequent neurological disability. Diagnostic delays lead to progressive neurological decline with associated reduction in quality of life for patients. Surgical decompression may halt neurologic worsening and, in many cases, improves function. Therefore, making a prompt diagnosis of DCM in order to facilitate early surgical intervention is a clinical priority in DCM. CONCLUSION: There are often extensive delays in the diagnosis of DCM. Presently, no single set of diagnostic criteria exists for DCM, making it challenging for clinicians to make the diagnosis. Earlier diagnosis and subsequent specialist referral could lead to improved patient outcomes using existing treatment modalities.

Description

Keywords

cervical, criteria, degenerative, diagnostic, myelopathy, spine

Journal Title

Global Spine J

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

2192-5682
2192-5690

Volume Title

12

Publisher

SAGE Publications
Sponsorship
National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) (ACF-2015-14-009, NIHR300696)