What spinal condition is referred to as hunhback?

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Prepare for the NCCAOM Biomedicine Board Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for success!

The term "hunchback" typically refers to kyphosis, a condition characterized by an excessive curvature of the thoracic spine, leading to a rounded appearance of the upper back. This can result in a pronounced rounding and sometimes a forward head posture, which gives the impression of a hunchback.

Kyphosis can be caused by a variety of factors including degenerative diseases, developmental problems, or can even be a result of trauma. It can vary in severity, presenting issues such as back pain, stiffness, and in some cases, respiratory or neurological complications due to the pressure on surrounding structures.

In contrast, scoliosis refers to an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, lordosis indicates an excessive inward curve of the lower back, and spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of the spinal canal that can lead to nerve compression, none of which would be accurately described as "hunchback." Thus, kyphosis is correctly identified as the spinal condition referred to with this term.

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