Study of the Prevalence of Atypical Scheuermann's Kyphosis Using Computed Tomography Scans

Objective  The aim of the present study was to detect atypical Scheuermann's disease through computed tomography scans and estimate its prevalence. Methods  This cross-sectional observational study involved 1,287 computed tomography scans from patients aged 18 to 40 years of both genders. The criteria for diagnosing atypical Scheuermann's disease included wedging of 5° in 3 consecutive vertebrae, combined with a total Cobb angle of 10° or more within the thoracolumbar interval from T8 to L2. Positive cases were assessed for kyphosis severity, presence of Schmorl's nodes, and scoliosis. Prevalence estimation and correlation analysis with age and sex were performed. Results  The study identified 28 cases of atypical Scheuermann's kyphosis, indicating a prevalence of 2.8%. Conclusion  The current research, utilizing abdominal tomography, offers valuable insights into the prevalence of Scheuermann's disease in its atypical form within the sampled population.