Neck extensor muscle weakness (Dropped head syndrome) following radiotherapy

Abstract

Background. Dropped head syndrome is an unusual condition in which the head cannot be held upright in its normal anatomic position secondary to pronounced, isolated, neck extensor muscle weakness.

Case report. A case of dropped head syndrome in a female with a history of radiotherapy for Hodgkin’s lymphoma and a clinical history consistent with multiple sclerosis is presented, and potential etiologies are discussed.

Conclusions. Muscular atrophy and lower motor neuron injury secondary to isolated anterior horn cell injury from radiotherapy emerge as the most likely etiology.