Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis in the cervical spine: A case report

Abstract

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a systemic condition characterized by characteristic ossification patterns that can occur in the spine and peripheral entheses. DISH most commonly affects the spine and often presents as back pain and stiffness. The ossifications are classically described in the spine as flowing ossifications along the anterolateral aspect in at least three successive vertebral levels or four contiguous vertebrae. Although less common, peripheral enthesopathy can occur at the shoulder, elbow, knee, or calcaneus. DISH in the spine most commonly occurs on the right side of the thoracic spinal segment. This case report reviews presentation, evaluation, and management of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis in the cervical spine.