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Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis and situs viscerum inversus
L Carile1, F Verdone, A Aiello
1Department of Medicine, Ospedale Civile A. Cardarelli, Campobasso, Italy.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|August 1, 1989
Summary
This study details a rare case of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) in a patient with situs viscerum inversus. The findings suggest the thoracic aorta may influence DISH development, impacting skeletal disorder pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Radiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a common skeletal disorder characterized by calcification and ossification of ligaments and entheses.
- Situs viscerum inversus is a congenital condition where major visceral organs are reversed from their normal positions.
Observation:
- A 74-year-old woman presented with DISH and situs viscerum inversus.
- Radiographic evidence of DISH was exclusively observed on the left side of her thoracic spine.
Findings:
- The unilateral presentation of DISH adjacent to the thoracic aorta suggests a potential role for the aorta in modulating the disease process.
- This case provides unique insights into the pathogenetic mechanisms of DISH.
Implications:
- Understanding the interaction between the thoracic aorta and spinal entheses could reveal novel therapeutic targets for DISH.
- This case highlights the importance of considering anatomical variations in the diagnosis and understanding of skeletal disorders.