Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: August 26, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for a Hump on the Back of a 68-Year-Old Man

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Kyphosis due to Osteoporosis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the age of the patient. Osteoporosis is common in elderly individuals and can lead to vertebral compression fractures, resulting in a hump on the back, also known as a kyphotic deformity.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Scheuermann's Kyphosis: Although more common in adolescents, Scheuermann's kyphosis can persist into adulthood and cause a noticeable hump on the back.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on the spinal discs can lead to a loss of height and curvature of the spine, resulting in a hump.
  • Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can cause pain and lead to a hunched posture, which may appear as a hump on the back.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Malignancy (e.g., Multiple Myeloma): Although less likely, it is crucial to consider malignancies that can cause vertebral destruction and subsequent kyphosis. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
  • Infection (e.g., Osteomyelitis, Discitis): Spinal infections can cause destruction of the vertebral bodies and discs, leading to a hump on the back. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.
  • Spinal Fracture: A traumatic or pathologic fracture of the spine can result in a sudden onset of kyphosis and must be considered, especially if there is a history of trauma or cancer.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Achondroplasia: A genetic disorder that affects bone growth, leading to short stature and spinal deformities, including kyphosis. However, this would typically be diagnosed at a younger age.
  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A group of genetic disorders that affect connective tissue, which can lead to spinal deformities, including kyphosis.
  • Neurofibromatosis: A genetic disorder that can cause spinal deformities, including kyphosis, due to the growth of tumors on the spine.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.