KIMMERLE ANOMALY

Abstract

The Kimmerle anomaly (KA) is a congenital or acquired osseous bridge at the craniovertebral junction, forming a bony canal that can compress the vertebral artery (VA), occipital nerve, and venous plexus. This review summarizes current literature on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic approaches of KA based on data from PubMed and eLibrary. The anomaly is found in 16–19% of the population and can manifest as vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI), cervicogenic headaches, and cochleovestibular disorders, especially after cervical spine strain or trauma. Diagnosis relies on radiography, MSCT, and MSCT angiography, while MRI and Doppler ultrasound are used to assess hemodynamic significance. Differential diagnosis includes atherosclerotic stenosis, vertebral artery tortuosity, and vestibular disorders. Understanding the anatomical and clinical characteristics of KA is critical for timely recognition and prevention of vascular and neurological complications.