Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy Mimicking Parkinson’s Disease

Introduction: Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a common cause of spinal cord dysfunction but rarely presents with tremor, which is typically associated with conditions like Parkinson’s disease.

Methods: A 54-year-old, right-handed male presented with a dystonic tremor and aching throughout his right upper limb. MRI revealed a disc osteophyte complex at C5/C6 and C6/C7 causing severe foraminal narrowing. Electromyography confirmed chronic C6/C7 radiculopathy. Conservative medical treatments failed to alleviate symptoms. However, CT-guided root
blocks at C6 and C7 led to temporary symptom relief.

Results: Definitive surgical intervention with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) at C5/C6 and C6/C7 resulted in immediate and sustained resolution of both brachialgia and dystonic tremor.

Conclusion : DCM can mimic Parkinson’s disease, particularly when presenting with tremor. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for preventing irreversible neurological damage. This case underscores the importance of considering DCM in the differential diagnosis of tremor and highlights the role of surgical decompression in resolving both motor and sensory symptoms. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for optimal patient outcomes.