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The old and the new camptocormia
1Neurology Department, University Hospital Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland.
Spine
|July 29, 1999
Summary
Camptocormia, initially described in soldiers, differs from modern usage in older women. The condition in older women, characterized by thoracolumbar kyphosis, requires distinct diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
- Physical Medicine
Background:
- The term camptocormia was first described in 1915 by neurologist Souques.
- Early cases involved young soldiers with acute, psychogenic, and transient forward-bent trunk posture.
Observation:
- Modern usage of camptocormia describes kyphotic postural anomalies in older women.
- These cases often stem from primary or neurogenic paravertebral muscle issues.
- The condition typically presents a chronic, progressive course.
Findings:
- Historical camptocormia responded to electrotherapy, while modern cases show positive response to corticosteroid therapy.
- The distinct etiologies and treatment responses necessitate differentiating these conditions.
Implications:
- Recommends using "thoracolumbar kyphosis in old age" for the somatic disease to prevent diagnostic confusion.
- Clarifies nomenclature for somatic kyphotic postural anomalies in the elderly.
- Highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis for appropriate therapeutic interventions.