Abstract: A chronic skeletal disorder of unknown aetiology occurring in middle and later years. The characteristic feature is massive new bone formation in the shape of calcification and ossification of the spinal ligaments, predominantly in the region of the anterior longitudinal ligament causing bony ankylosis of the anterolateral horns of the spine, more frequently on the right and anterior aspects, with significant ossification. Involvement of the peripheral skeleton is generally expressed by extensive enthesopathies. Its aetiology is unknown; several authors classify it amongst the degenerative disorders of the skeleton, whilst others assign it to a metabolic or endocrine disorder. The American College of Rheumatology put it amongst the disorders of bone and cartilage.
Publication Year: 2009
Publication Date: 2009-01-01
Language: en
Type: book-chapter
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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