Intervertebral-Disc Calcification in Childhood

Abstract

Review of 2,355 roentgenographic studies of the spine at Children's Hospital of East Bay revealed six cases of intervertebral-disc calcification which were noted to be associated with typical clinical findings. Another case was discovered recently. The following diagnostic criteria for the syndrome of intervertebral-disc calcification emerged from this study: (1) pain, local or referred, (2) limitation of motion, (3) evidence of inflammation, (4) calcification of the intervertebral disc visible on roentgenogram, (5) pediatric age group only, and (6) self-limited course. The effectiveness of conservative therapy is emphasized. Long-term follow-up of six patients revealed abnormalities in the cervical spine in four.