Scoliosis

Scoliosis, curvature of the spine to one side, with twisting. It occurs as a congenital defect or may be secondary to spinal diseases. Severe scoliosis causes hunchback deformity and loss of height, and may restrict cardiac or lung function. Scoliosis becomes apparent in adolescence or earlier, and it occurs more often in girls than in boys. Severe cases may require surgery, after which a body cast is worn for several months.

See also: Spine.