Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH): Increased prevalence in Pacific Islanders

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Disorders
• Radiology and Imaging
• Epidemiology and Public Health

Background:

• Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a common musculoskeletal condition characterized by ligamentous and entheseal ossification.
• DISH can lead to reduced mobility and pain, with reported prevalence ranging from 3% to 25% in individuals over 50.
• Radiological observations suggest a potentially higher prevalence and severity of DISH among Pacific Islander populations in Australasia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and severity of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) within a Pacific Islander community.
• To quantitatively assess the occurrence of DISH in this specific demographic group.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 459 chest radiographs to identify features of DISH using the Resnick Criteria.
• Assessment of the number of vertebral bodies affected by DISH on each radiograph.
• Analysis of patient clinical records to determine ethnicity.

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of DISH in the study cohort was 30% (138/459 individuals).
• The prevalence of DISH among Pacific Islanders was significantly higher at 44% (42/96).
• This difference in prevalence between Pacific Islanders and Europeans in the study group was statistically significant (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

• The study confirms a high prevalence of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) in the studied Pacific Islander population.
• Findings support the clinical suspicion of increased DISH occurrence in Pacific Islanders.