Deformity due to lateral curvature of the spine is known as?

Appeared in: PGIMS Rohtak NO - 2017

Explanation

Scoliosis is the medical term for a sideways (lateral) curvature of the spine.
As defined in medical literature, scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity, but its primary feature is a curve of at least 10 degrees in the coronal (frontal) plane.
Visually, this presents as uneven shoulders, waist, or hips, and a characteristic rib hump when bending forward (Adam's test).
The provided image clearly illustrates scoliosis as a lateral S-shaped curve, distinct from other spinal shapes.

Option A: Atelectasis is a condition affecting the lungs (collapse of alveoli), not the spine. It is a respiratory issue.
Option B: Strabismus, or 'crossed eyes,' is a condition where the eyes are misaligned. It is an ophthalmologic disorder, completely unrelated to the musculoskeletal system.
Option D: Kyphosis is a curvature of the spine in the sagittal (forward-backward) plane, causing a 'hunchback' or forward-rounding posture. The question specifies a 'lateral' (sideways) curvature.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Spinal Deformities as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Early detection of scoliosis through screening, such as the Adam's forward bend test in school-aged children, is crucial. It allows for timely intervention (e.g., bracing) to prevent curve progression.
Nurses play a key role in educating patients and families about treatment options, such as bracing (which requires significant adherence) and surgical correction for severe curves (typically greater than 45-50 degrees).
What if? If the patient presented with a 'hunchback' deformity instead of a sideways curve, the diagnosis would be Kyphosis, which is an excessive forward rounding of the upper back.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key descriptive phrase in the question stem: 'lateral curvature of the spine'.
Next, evaluate the options to determine which term matches this description.
Eliminate options that are clearly unrelated to the spine. Atelectasis is a lung condition, and Strabismus is an eye condition.
Differentiate between the remaining two spinal deformities. Recall or deduce that 'Kyphosis' refers to a forward curvature (hunchback), while 'Scoliosis' refers to a lateral or sideways curvature.
Select Scoliosis as it directly corresponds to the definition of a lateral spinal curvature.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 408-410

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 pp. 2054-2056, 2052-2054

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