Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is characterized by excessive osteophyte formation in the Spine without degenerative, traumatic, or postinfectious changes.
Anatomical location
In 97 % of cases, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis occurs in the thoracic spine. In approximately 90 % of cases, it occurs in the lumbar spine, and in approximately 78 % in the cervical spine. In approximately 70 % of cases, all three spinal segments are affected simultaneously[^1].
Symptoms
In most cases, DISH is asymptomatic; however, in pronounced cases involving the cervical region, globus sensation or dysphagia may occur due to compression of the esophagus.
Risk factors
Risk factors for the development of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis include an elevated body mass index, elevated serum uric acid levels, diabetes mellitus [^2], and elevated insulin or growth hormone levels[^3].
Imaging
Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis is best visualized with CT imaging.
