Kümmell disease

Case contributed by Rania Adel Anan
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Back pain. No history of trauma.

Patient Data

Age: 65 years
Gender: Female
ct

Collapsed D12 vertebra with retropulsion of its postro-superior corner indenting the distal cord. Relative increased density of D12 vertebral body with horizontal intravertebral air cleft also noted. This appearance is highly suggestive of avascular necrosis (Kümmell disease). 

Case Discussion

Kümmell disease is an eponymous name for avascular necrosis and collapse of a vertebral body. It usually occurs in elderly and osteoporotic patients, being more common in females.

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