The paracondylar process: an unusual and treatable cause of posttraumatic headache

Abstract

Study design: Case report and clinical discussion.

Objective: To describe a case of persistent posttraumatic headache associated with the presence of a paracondylar process, and the result of surgical resection of this osseous anomaly.

Summary of background data: The paracondylar process is one of a group of congenital anomalies of the craniovertebral junction. This heterogenic group is classified in the literature based on embryologic origin. In general, the paracondylar process has little or no clinical significance. There are some cases reporting symptoms related to the paracondylar process, especially after head trauma. Few report improvement after surgery.

Methods: We describe a case of a 21-year-old woman who was seen for severe persistent daily headache and neck pain after minor head- and neck injury. Clinical examination revealed tenderness and an abnormal structure in the right cervico-occipital region by palpation. A conventional radiograph and computed tomography scan of the craniovertebral junction revealed a paracondylar process on the right side of the skull.

Results: After resection of the paracondylar process, headache and cervical pain were substantially reduced.

Conclusion: This case underlines the possible clinical significance of congenital anomalies of the craniovertebral junction. They can become symptomatic after head trauma, causing headache and/or cervical pain. Surgical extirpation can relieve these symptoms.