Etymed
scoliosis
Definition
Abnormal lateral curvature of the spine
Clinical context
A 16-year-old female presents to the clinic with complaints of back pain and uneven shoulders. On physical examination, the physician notes a visible lateral curvature of the spine with a rib hump when the patient bends forward. The patient denies any neurological symptoms but reports increased pain with prolonged standing. X-rays confirm the presence of an abnormal lateral spinal curve. The diagnosis of scoliosis is made based on the characteristic lateral curvature of the spine.
Mnemonic
Scoliosis = Spine CURVE (C) and Lateral (L) with RIB Hump (R)