Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026
05:46
A Proinflammatory, Degenerative Organ Culture Model to Simulate Early-Stage Intervertebral Disc Disease.
Published on: February 14, 2021
Relationship of Modic type 1 change with disc degeneration: a prospective MRI study
Katariina Luoma1, Tapio Vehmas, Mats Grönblad
1Helsinki and Uudenmaa District University Hospitals, Helsinki University Central Hospital, HUS-röntgen, PL 340, 00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland. katariina.luoma@hus.fi
Skeletal Radiology
|December 20, 2008
Summary
Modic type 1 changes (M1) in the lumbar spine are associated with accelerated disc degeneration. These changes may indicate a pathological degenerative process within the discovertebral unit.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Orthopedics
- Spine Imaging
Background:
- Modic type 1 (M1) changes are observed on MRI of the lumbar spine.
- Their natural course and association with disc degeneration are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the natural progression of Modic type 1 (M1) changes.
- To determine the relationship between M1 and lumbar disc degeneration.
Main Methods:
- Follow-up MRI analysis of 24 chronic low back pain patients with M1.
- Exclusion of patients with other spinal disorders, age >=60, or recent surgery.
- Multivariate logistic regression to assess associations between M1 and degenerative disc changes.
Main Results:
- M1 was associated with decreased disc height, dark nucleus pulposus, and altered annulus fibrosus at baseline.
- During follow-up, M1 progression correlated with further disc height loss and nucleus pulposus signal intensity changes.
- Larger M1 lesions were linked to lower or decreasing disc height.
Conclusions:
- Modic type 1 changes appear to accelerate the degenerative process in adjacent intervertebral discs.
- M1 may represent a marker of a pathological degenerative process within the discovertebral unit.
- M1 is associated with advanced and deforming degenerative changes.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Degenerative Disc Disease I: Introduction
Degenerative disc disease is a chronic condition in which intervertebral discs gradually lose structure and function. It is not infectious or autoimmune; rather, it results from age-related biochemical and mechanical changes, influenced by genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors.Structure and Function of DiscsThe spine contains 23 intervertebral discs that absorb load, distribute forces, maintain spacing, and allow flexibility. Each disc consists of a nucleus pulposus, a gel-like core...
01:23Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
The symptoms of degenerative disc disease arise from a combination of mechanical compression, vascular compromise, and biochemical inflammation, which together disrupt nerve function and produce pain.Mechanical CompressionDisc degeneration reduces height and elasticity, predisposing to herniation of the nucleus pulposus, a major cause of radicular pain. Herniations may be protrusion (bulging with intact annulus), extrusion (nucleus extends beyond disc but remains connected), or sequestration...
01:27Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Introduction:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, can include a specialized imaging technique of the urinary system known as Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU). This radiation-free technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images with the help of a computer. MRU is particularly effective for visualizing fluid-filled structures like the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.Applications of MRI in the Genitourinary SystemKidneys and Ureters: MRI detects tumors, cysts,...
01:24Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics discovered in the 1930s, in which matter exposed to magnetic fields and radio waves was found to emit radio signals. In 1970, a physician and researcher named Raymond Damadian noticed that malignant (cancerous) tissue gave off different signals than normal body tissue. He applied for a patent for the first MRI scanning device in clinical use by the early 1980s. The early MRI...
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...
01:14Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Introduction: MRI and CT scans are crucial advancements in medical imaging techniques, playing a vital role in diagnosing conditions related to the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Each scan serves distinct purposes, targets specific areas, and requires unique nursing duties.
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...