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Kyphosis - Overview

Alternative Names

Scheuermann's disease; Roundback; Hunchback; Postural kyphosis

Definition of Kyphosis:

Kyphosis is a curving of the spine that causes a bowing of the back, which leads to a hunchback or slouching posture.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Kyphosis is a spinal deformity. It can be caused by:

Degenerative disease (such as arthritis)
Developmental problems
Trauma

Kyphosis can occur at any age, although it is rare at birth.

Adolescent kyphosis, also known as Scheuermann's disease, is caused by the wedging together of several bones of the spine (vertebrae) in a row. The cause of Scheuermann's disease is unknown.

In adults, kyphosis can be a result of:

Fractures caused by osteoporosis (osteoporotic compression fractures)
Slipping of one vertebra forward on another (spondylolisthesis)

Other causes of kyphosis include:

Certain endocrine diseases
Connective tissue disorders
Disk degeneration
Infection (such as tuberculosis)
Muscular dystrophy
Neurofibromatosis
Paget's disease
Polio
Spina bifida
Tumors

Kyphosis can also be seen with scoliosis. Each cause has its own risk factors.

Skeletal spine

Kyphosis

Reviewed last on: 7/17/2008
Andrew L Chen, MD, MS, Orthopedist, The Alpine Clinic, Littleton, NH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Shelton YA. Scoliosis and kyphosis in adolescents: diagnosis and management. Adolesc Med State Art Rev. 2007;18:121-139.

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