: A Comprehensive Overview Baastrup’s disease, also known as kissing spine syndrome and interspinous bursitis, results from adjacent spinous processes in the lumbar spine rubbing against each other and resulting in a...
: A Comprehensive Overview Baastrup’s disease, also known as kissing spine syndrome and interspinous bursitis, results from adjacent spinous processes in the lumbar spine rubbing against each other and resulting in a degenerative hypertrophy and inflammatory changes. It was first described in 1933 and leads to enlargement, flattening and reactive sclerosis of interspinous surfaces. Baastrup disease is frequently missed by clinicians due to lack of knowledge or poor imaging technique.
As a result, this relatively common pathology is largely underdiagnosed and subsequently mistreated. Case INTRODUCTION A 21 year old male college football lineman presents with low back discomfort over the past 2-3 months. He has been having low back discomfort while playing that gets worse while he is engaged with another opponent with his lumbar spine in extension.
He does seem to get some relief leaning forward. There is some radiation up his spine, but no radiation down into his legs. On examination, he has no weakness.
He is tender to palpation over the L4-L5 interspinous space and has some mild spasm on the left paraspinal musculature of the lumbar spine on the left. He did have plain film x-rays and an MRI of his lumbar spine that did not show any pars defect or spinal stenosis. There was moderate interspinous bursitis.
What is the most likely diagnosis? A) Spondylolysis B) Central canal stenosis C) Disc herniation D) Baastrup’s disease This disease is commonly seen among the elderly and has been described in thirteen percent of professional heavy motor vehicle drivers. It is most commonly diagnosed at the L3 through L5 levels.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to baastrup's disease, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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