Module 24, General Medical Level

A 10 year old female presented with a spinal curvature which was first noted in a routine camp physical. She had no neurologic complaints. Her birth, medical, and developmental history were all unremarkable. Her family history was negative except there was a vague history of spinal curvature in the father. Physical examination was significant for a moderate left thoracic rib prominence, normal lower extremity reflexes, sensation and strength, but an absent abdominal reflexes in the upper and lower quadrants on the left side.

Question 24A

This is a typical presentation for an adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Question 24B

Minor scoliosis curves occur equally in boys and girls.

Question 24C

Most significant idiopathic scoliosis curves are detected between ages 10 to 12 years in girls.

Question 24D

The family history given in this case is probably significant because scoliosis runs in families.

Question 24E

Scoliosis is a disease in which the cause is currently unknown.

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