[Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis : diagnostic criteria and management]

The rapid growth of the spine during the pubertal spurt requires greater vigilance for the pediatrician at the annual check during this period to detect the occurrence of scoliosis. Before confirming the diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis, it is imperative to exclude a secondary cause with appropriate history and clinical examination, and in selective cases with additional testing. Any scoliosis detected during growth should be considered potentially progressive and sent to a specialist if it is equal to or exceeds 20° on the X-rays. Radiological changes of more than 5° during a 6 months interval must also motivate an appointment with a specialist. Regular clinical and radiological surveillance, every 6 months, remains imperative to confirm or deny this risk of progression and decide on treatment.