Which condition involves abnormal lateral curvature of the spine?

Which condition involves abnormal lateral curvature of the spine?

• A. Scoliosis
• B. Hypertension
• C. Angina
• D. Coronary artery disease

Answer: (A)

Scoliosis is the condition characterized by abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It often shows up as uneven shoulders or hips and a rib hump on one side when a person bends forward. Diagnosis starts with a physical screen and is confirmed and measured on X-ray using the Cobb angle to determine how severe the curve is. Most cases are adolescent idiopathic, but scoliosis can be congenital or due to neuromuscular conditions. Treatment depends on how big the curve is and how fast it’s progressing, ranging from observation for mild curves to bracing for moderate curves and surgical fusion for severe cases. The other conditions listed are heart and blood vessel problems and have no relation to spine curvature.

Scoliosis is the condition characterized by abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. It often shows up as uneven shoulders or hips and a rib hump on one side when a person bends forward. Diagnosis starts with a physical screen and is confirmed and measured on X-ray using the Cobb angle to determine how severe the curve is. Most cases are adolescent idiopathic, but scoliosis can be congenital or due to neuromuscular conditions. Treatment depends on how big the curve is and how fast it’s progressing, ranging from observation for mild curves to bracing for moderate curves and surgical fusion for severe cases. The other conditions listed are heart and blood vessel problems and have no relation to spine curvature.