A Five-Year Retrospective Study: Relationship Between Cervical Spine Whiplash Injuries and Demyelinating Diseases in the Pediatric Population

Objectives: Whiplash injuries are among the most common cervical spine injuries in the pediatric population. Limited literature demonstrates a potential link between cervical spine trauma and demyelinating disease, such as multiple sclerosis. These associations have primarily been reported from case-controlled studies, while cohort studies have not supported these findings. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether a relationship exists between cervical spine trauma and the short-term development of demyelinating disease in pediatric patients. We hypothesized that patients experiencing cervical spine whiplash injuries would demonstrate subsequent demyelinating diseases. Methods: This was a single-center retrospective chart review. Charts for patients aged 10-16 with a suspected history of cervical spine whiplash injury were electronically reviewed for any post-traumatic symptoms of demyelinating disease. Patient’s past medical history and family history were also reviewed to evaluate for any predisposing risk factors for demyelinating disease. Statistical analysis was descriptive in nature. The collected data were summarized using counts and percentages. No inferential statistical testing was performed. Results: Of the 63 patients included for evaluation, 0 were found to have evidence of demyelinating disease following cervical spine whiplash injury. Median age was 13 years, and 52% of the patients were female. Conclusions: The descriptive findings of this pilot study demonstrated no cases of demyelinating disease in pediatric patients experiencing cervical spine whiplash injuries within a five-year period. Further research involving larger cohorts and extended follow-up time is recommended to provide further insight regarding this potential association.