Abnormal odontoid process morphology

What it means

Abnormal structure of the odontoid process, which is a part of the C2 or axis vertebra and forms pivot of the structures forming the craniovertebral junction. The odontoid process is also known as the dens of the axis.

The dens of the axis is a protuberance of the C2 vertebral body around which the first vertebra rotates.

Rare diseases that can present with this2

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category

Also called: Abnormal odontoid peg · Abnormal odontoid process · Abnormality of the odontoid process