Medical Term for Hunchback
The medical term for hunchback is kyphosis, specifically hyperkyphosis when the thoracic spine curvature exceeds normal limits. 1
Definition and Diagnostic Criteria
Kyphosis refers to a dorsally convex (outward) curvature of the spine in the sagittal plane. 2
- Pathological thoracic kyphosis is defined as a Cobb angle greater than 50 degrees. 2
- Hyperkyphosis describes excessive curvature of the thoracic spine beyond normal physiological limits and has a prevalence of 20% to 40% in the general population, with higher rates in geriatric patients. 3
- The term is used to describe the spinal curve that results in an abnormally rounded back appearance. 4
Clinical Recognition
The condition presents as an abnormal forward rounding of the upper back, creating the characteristic "hunchback" appearance. 5
- In rodent models (which parallels human assessment), kyphosis is identified when an animal cannot straighten its spine when placed on a flat surface and observed while walking—this inability to straighten is the defining feature. 1
- The deformity becomes the main concern for teenage patients and their families, whereas pain becomes the primary complaint in adults. 5
Important Clinical Context
Kyphosis increases with age and is multifactorial in etiology, involving degenerative changes, vertebral compression fractures, muscular weakness, and altered biomechanics. 3
- Wedge-shaped vertebral bodies at one or several levels contribute to the deformity by moving the center of gravity forward and increasing the flexion-bending moment on the spine. 2
- The condition may be associated with adverse health consequences including impaired physical function, pain and disability, impaired pulmonary function, and increased mortality. 3