Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) – A case report

Abstract

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis is a non inflammatory systemic disease affecting axial skeleton which results in ossification and calcification of spinal ligaments and entheses. The pathophysiology of the disease is poorly understood. The closest differential diagnosis for DISH remains ankylosing spondylitis. Further research is necessary to treat the disease and to improve the prognosis and quality of life of patients affected with DISH. This article reports a patient with DISH and its management in a tertiary care hospital. Keywords: Forestier’s disease, Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, Calcification, Ossification, Anterior longitudinal ligament, Candle wax, Ankylosing spondylitis, Syndesmophytes.