Differential Diagnosis for a 64 yo Female with Curvature at the Base of the Neck Causing a Hump Posterior Neck

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Kyphosis: This condition is characterized by an excessive outward curve of the spine, leading to a hump-like appearance, especially in the upper back. It's common in older adults, particularly postmenopausal women due to osteoporosis.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Osteoporotic Compression Fractures: These can lead to kyphosis and are common in elderly women, especially those with a history of osteoporosis.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on the spinal discs can cause the spine to curve abnormally, leading to a hump.
  • Scheuermann's Kyphosis: Although more common in adolescents, it can persist into adulthood and cause a noticeable curvature.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Malignancy (e.g., Metastatic Cancer): Certain types of cancer can cause spinal curvature due to vertebral body destruction. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
  • Infection (e.g., Osteomyelitis, Discitis): Spinal infections can lead to rapid deterioration and require prompt treatment.
  • Multiple Myeloma: A type of blood cancer that can cause bone lesions leading to spinal fractures and curvature.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A group of disorders that affect connective tissues supporting the skin, bones, blood vessels, and many other organs and tissues. It can lead to spinal instability and curvature.
  • Neurofibromatosis: A genetic disorder that can cause tumors to form on nerve tissue, potentially leading to spinal curvature.
  • Skeletal Dysplasias: A group of disorders that affect the development of the skeleton, some of which can lead to spinal curvature.