Cortical Osteoid Osteoma of the Right C4 Transverse Process: An Unusual Cervical Localization

Authors

Ouiam Taibi, Rania Bouanane, Salma El Aouadi, Zineb. Labbi, Zaynab. Iraqi Houssaini, Omar EL Aoufir, Laila Jroundi, Ola Messaoud

Journal Information

Journal: Medpeer Publisher

ISSN: 3066-2737

Volume: 3

Issue: 3

Date of Publication: 2026/03/28

DOI: 10.70780/medpeer.000QGS0

Abstract

Osteoid osteoma is a benign osteogenic tumor that predominantly affects the long bones of adolescents and young adults. Spinal involvement is less common, and cervical localization remains rare.
We report the case of a 19-year-old patient presenting with chronic right-sided cervical pain evolving over several months, predominantly nocturnal and resistant to conventional analgesics. Clinical examination was unremarkable, with no fever, cervical stiffness, or neurological deficit.
Computed tomography revealed a small intracortical lesion involving the right C4 transverse process, containing a central calcified nidus surrounded by marked reactive sclerosis, without extension into the spinal canal.
Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a nidus appearing hypointense on both T1- and T2-weighted sequences, associated with extensive bone marrow edema and paravertebral inflammatory changes, with intense enhancement following gadolinium administration.
These imaging findings were consistent with cortical osteoid osteoma.

Keywords

Osteoid osteoma; Cervical spine; Transverse process; Magnetic resonance imaging; Computed tomography