Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2-1-2022

Comments

This article is the author’s final published version in Global Spine Journal, Volume 12, Issue 1_suppl, February 2022, Pages 55S - 63S.

The published version is available at https://doi.org/10.1177/21925682211030871. Copyright © Hilton et al.

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.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

PubMed ID

35174729

Language

English

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