Clinically probable alkaptonuria-associated ochronosis presenting as multilevel cervical disc herniation with myeloradiculopathy managed by three-level C4–7 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a case report - Takeaways - MDSpire

Clinically probable alkaptonuria-associated ochronosis presenting as multilevel cervical disc herniation with myeloradiculopathy managed by three-level C4–7 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a case report

  • By

  • Zichuan Wu

  • Baifeng Sun

  • Junzhe Sheng

  • Yong Hu

  • Yang Liu

  • June 15, 2026

  • 0 min

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  • 1

    Alkaptonuria is a rare disorder characterized by homogentisic acid accumulation, leading to connective tissue pigmentation and potential spinal involvement.

  • 2

    The patient presented with progressive neck pain, upper-limb numbness, and gait disturbances, indicating cervical myeloradiculopathy.

  • 3

    Intraoperative findings included diffusely black-pigmented intervertebral discs, raising suspicion for ochronotic disc involvement.

  • 4

    The patient underwent three-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion to address multilevel anterior compression and stabilize the cervical spine.

  • 5

    Postoperative recovery showed early improvement in symptoms, highlighting the importance of recognizing potential metabolic disorders in spinal cases.

Original Source(s)

Clinically probable alkaptonuria-associated ochronosis presenting as multilevel cervical disc herniation with myeloradiculopathy managed by three-level C4–7 anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a case report

  • by Zichuan Wu, Baifeng Sun, Junzhe Sheng, Yong Hu, Yang Liu

  • June 15, 2026

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