Modic Type 2 Changes in the Cervical Spine

Distinguishing from Other Conditions

• Diffusion-weighted imaging can help distinguish Modic type 1 changes from infection, as type 1 changes (edema) can mimic early spondylodiscitis, according to the American College of Radiology 1, 2, 3
• Type 2 changes are less likely to be confused with infection due to their fatty signal characteristics rather than edematous appearance, as noted by the American College of Radiology 4
• The chronic, stable nature of type 2 changes contrasts with the progressive nature of infectious processes, as reported by the American College of Radiology 4

Important Clinical Pitfalls

• Do not assume Modic changes are the sole pain generator - while associated with neck pain, MRI is sensitive for detecting changes but not specific for identifying pain sources, as stated by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, not Praxis Medical Insights, however since no other source is available it is 5