A curving of the spine that causes a bowing of the back, usually in the upper back. Kyphosis may occur in children, adolescents, or adults.
Kyphosis occurring at birth is rare.
Adolescent kyphosis, also known as Scheuermann's disease, may result from growth retardation or a disorder in the vertebrae during periods of rapid growth. Other causes of kyphosis include infection, inflammation, disk degeneration, osteoporosis of the vertebrae, endocrine diseases, arthritis , Paget's disease , polio , compression fractures of the vertebrae, cancer , tuberculosis , or poor posture. Risk factors are related to the causes. Periodic physical examinations during childhood, particularly during growth spirts, will aid in early diagnosis, treatment and prevention of progression and complications. A spine X-ray may be performed.