What condition is characterized by anterior wedging of the affected vertebrae and thoracic kyphosis?

What condition is characterized by anterior wedging of the affected vertebrae and thoracic kyphosis?

• A. Osteoporosis
• B. Scheuermann's Disease
• C. Spinal stenosis
• D. Degenerative disc disease

Answer: (B)

The condition characterized by anterior wedging of the affected vertebrae and thoracic kyphosis is Scheuermann's Disease. This condition, often seen in adolescents, leads to abnormal growth of the thoracic vertebrae, resulting in a kyphotic posture due to the wedging of the vertebrae in the front. As a result, the spine adapts with a noticeable increase in thoracic curvature, which can lead to pain and discomfort during activities. The specific nature of the vertebral changes in Scheuermann's Disease, including the wedging, distinguishes it from other conditions described in the options. For example, while osteoporosis can lead to vertebral compression fractures, it does not primarily cause the characteristic pattern of wedging associated with Scheuermann's. Conversely, spinal stenosis typically involves narrowing of the spinal canal and presents with different symptoms such as leg pain, and degenerative disc disease is associated with disc degeneration rather than vertebral wedging. Thus, the distinct symptoms and changes in vertebral morphology make Scheuermann's Disease the correct answer.

The condition characterized by anterior wedging of the affected vertebrae and thoracic kyphosis is Scheuermann's Disease. This condition, often seen in adolescents, leads to abnormal growth of the thoracic vertebrae, resulting in a kyphotic posture due to the wedging of the vertebrae in the front. As a result, the spine adapts with a noticeable increase in thoracic curvature, which can lead to pain and discomfort during activities.

The specific nature of the vertebral changes in Scheuermann's Disease, including the wedging, distinguishes it from other conditions described in the options. For example, while osteoporosis can lead to vertebral compression fractures, it does not primarily cause the characteristic pattern of wedging associated with Scheuermann's. Conversely, spinal stenosis typically involves narrowing of the spinal canal and presents with different symptoms such as leg pain, and degenerative disc disease is associated with disc degeneration rather than vertebral wedging. Thus, the distinct symptoms and changes in vertebral morphology make Scheuermann's Disease the correct answer.