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Baastrup's disease correlating with diffuse lumbar paraspinal atrophy: a case report.
A J Haig1, A Harris, D J Quint
1Interdepartmental Spine Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0042, USA. andyhaig@umich.edu
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 10, 2001
Summary
Baastrup's disease, or "kissing spine," may be linked to paraspinal muscle changes. This case suggests fatty muscle replacement and denervation could play a role in its development.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Baastrup's disease, characterized by "kissing spine" on X-ray, has been a suspected cause of low back pain since the 1930s.
- The exact cause of Baastrup's disease remains unknown, with no prior reports linking it to muscle or soft tissue abnormalities.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old male presented with chronic low back pain, stiffness, and hardened skin over the lumbar region.
- Radiographic imaging confirmed classic sclerotic changes between spinous processes, consistent with Baastrup's disease.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed significant fatty infiltration of the paraspinal muscles, and electromyography indicated severe, isolated paraspinal denervation.
Findings:
- The study identified profound fatty replacement and severe denervation in the paraspinal muscles of a patient with Baastrup's disease.
- These muscular changes were observed alongside the characteristic "kissing spine" radiographic findings.
Implications:
- This case suggests that paraspinal muscle pathology, potentially stemming from compartment syndrome or vascular issues, may contribute to the development of Baastrup's disease.
- Further research into the role of vascular and muscular factors in Baastrup's disease pathogenesis is warranted.
