Syndesmophyte
Syndesmophyte
Syndesmophyte (pronounced: sin-des-mo-fite) is a term used in the field of medicine to describe a specific type of bone spur that forms along the vertebral column.
Etymology
The term 'Syndesmophyte' is derived from the Greek words 'syndesmos' meaning 'band' or 'ligament', and 'phyton' meaning 'plant'. This is in reference to the way these bone spurs grow vertically along the ligaments of the spine, similar to the way a plant grows.
Definition
A Syndesmophyte is a bony outgrowth or osteophyte that originates from a ligament, specifically the ligaments of the spine. They are a common feature in certain types of arthritis, such as Ankylosing Spondylitis and Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH).
Clinical Significance
Syndesmophytes are often associated with a reduced range of motion and can cause pain and stiffness in the back or neck. They are typically seen in patients with inflammatory spinal conditions. The presence of syndesmophytes is often used as a diagnostic criterion for certain diseases, such as Ankylosing Spondylitis.
Related Terms
- Osteophyte: A general term for a bony outgrowth or bone spur.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: A type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, often leading to the formation of syndesmophytes.
- Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH): A condition characterized by the formation of bone spurs along the ligaments of the spine.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Syndesmophyte
- Wikipedia's article - Syndesmophyte
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