Scheuermann's disease

Kyphotic deformity of the spine that develops in adolescence. Recognized by the postural deformity and the radiographic appearance of anterior wedging of ≥5 degrees in 3 consecutive thoracic vertebral bodies. Additional findings include Schmorl's nodes, end-plate narrowing, and irregular end plates that help confirm the diagnosis. Etiology remains unknown, but genetics and infection have been implicated as contributing factors. Usually detected in adolescents, adults may present with back pain and may be diagnosed after age 40.