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Multilevel lumbar disc herniation in 12-year-old twins
S K Obukhov1, L Hankenson, M Manka
1Department of Neurosurgery, Emanuel Children's Hospital, Portland, OR 97227, USA.
Summary
Pediatric lumbar disc herniation is uncommon. A case study of twins suggests a hereditary component to juvenile disc degeneration, even in asymptomatic individuals, highlighting potential genetic factors in spinal health.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Genetics
- Radiology
Background:
- Lumbar disc herniation is rare in children.
- A 12-year-old female presented with backache and sciatica following a lifting injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of pediatric lumbar disc herniation.
- To investigate potential hereditary factors in juvenile disc degeneration.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a pediatric patient with lumbar disc herniation.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine for both the affected patient and her twin sister.
- Conservative management of symptoms.
Main Results:
- The patient exhibited multilevel lumbar disc herniation.
- Symptoms resolved within 6 weeks of conservative management.
- The asymptomatic twin sister showed similar disc degeneration and herniation patterns on MRI.
Conclusions:
- This case suggests a hereditary predisposition to juvenile lumbar disc degeneration.
- Multilevel disc herniation can occur in pediatric populations.
- Genetic factors may play a significant role in the development of disc degeneration in adolescents.