kyfose

Kyfose, commonly spelled kyphosis in English, is a medical term for an abnormal forward curvature of the thoracic spine, resulting in a hunched or rounded upper back. The word derives from the Greek kyphos, meaning humped or bent. Kyfose describes curvature in the sagittal plane and can be a normal variation in early childhood or a pathologic condition when the curvature is excessive.

There are several forms of kyfose. Postural kyphosis is typically due to slouched posture and is often reversible with posture training and therapeutic exercise. Scheuermann’s kyphosis, or Scheuermann’s disease, is a juvenile condition characterized by vertebral wedge deformities and usually presents during adolescence. Other causes include congenital spinal abnormalities, osteoporosis with vertebral compression fractures, inflammatory or infectious diseases, trauma, and certain metabolic bone disorders.

Diagnosis usually begins with clinical examination and history, followed by imaging. The Cobb angle on spinal radiographs is commonly used to quantify the degree of kyphosis. Further imaging, such as MRI or CT, may be employed to assess underlying causes or associated spinal issues.

Treatment depends on severity and etiology. Mild postural kyphosis may respond to physical therapy and exercises to strengthen back muscles and improve posture. Bracing can help slow progression in growing children with Scheuermann’s kyphosis. Severe deformities or those causing pain, functional limitation, or neurologic risk may require surgical intervention, such as posterior spinal fusion or osteotomy. Regular monitoring and management of underlying conditions are important for prognosis.