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Akçay B, İnanç G. The effect of Schroth Best Practice exercises and Cheneau brace treatment on perceptual and cognitive asymmetry in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with thoracic major curve. Ir J Med Sci 2024; 193:1479-1486. [PMID: 38123885 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03593-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients have been found to exhibit cortical asymmetry. Although asymmetries in cortical structures have been found in patients with AIS, there has been no research on how conservative treatments affect cerebellar functional organization. AIMS This study aimed to examine the impact of conservative treatments on perceptual and cognitive asymmetry in the auditory system assessed by dichotic listening in AIS patients with thoracic major curves. METHOD This study involved 30 AIS patients and 21 healthy subjects. The intervention group used a Cheneau brace and performed 18 Schroth Best Practice (SBP) exercise sessions. Auditory lateralization was assessed using the Dichotic Listening Paradigm (DLP) in both groups before and after the intervention. RESULTS The 6-week intervention resulted in a significant increase in left ear responses in the force-left condition in the AIS (p < 0.05). Left ear responses were lower in AIS at baseline (p < 0.05). The results at week 6 were similar in all conditions (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION The results of this study demonstrated that SBP exercises and Cheneau brace treatment can improve perceptual and cognitive asymmetry in the auditory system in AIS patients with thoracic major curve. Scoliosis-associated changes in the spine and postural control may affect auditory perception by causing adaptations in sensory and motor networks. Future studies are needed to examine the connectivity in brain regions related to motor control and auditory processing after conservative treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical trials number: NCT06141759.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burçin Akçay
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University, Bandırma, Turkey.
| | - Gonca İnanç
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Near East University, Nicosia, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
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Soh RCC, Chen BZ, Hartono S, Lee MS, Lee W, Lim SL, Gan J, Maréchal B, Chan LL, Lo YL. The hindbrain and cortico-reticular pathway in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Clin Radiol 2024; 79:e759-e766. [PMID: 38388254 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2024.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
AIM To characterise the corticoreticular pathway (CRP) in a case-control cohort of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients using high-resolution slice-accelerated readout-segmented echo-planar diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to enhance the discrimination of small brainstem nuclei in comparison to automated whole-brain volumetry and tractography and their clinical correlates. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-four participants (16 AIS patients, 18 healthy controls) underwent clinical and orthopaedic assessments and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on a 3 T MRI machine. Automated whole-brain volume-based morphometry, tract-based spatial statistics analysis, and manual CRP tractography by two independent raters were performed. Intra-rater and inter-rater agreement of DTI metrics from CRP tractography were assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient. Normalised structural brain volumes and DTI metrics were compared between groups using Student's t-tests. Linear correlation analysis between imaging parameters and clinical scores was also performed. RESULTS AIS patients demonstrated a significantly larger pons volume compared to controls (p=0.006). Significant inter-side CRP differences in mean (p=0.02) and axial diffusivity (p=0.01) were found in patients only. Asymmetry in CRP fractional anisotropy significantly correlated with the Cobb angle (p=0.03). CONCLUSION Relative pontine hypertrophy and asymmetry in CRP DTI metrics suggest central supranuclear inter-hemispheric imbalance in AIS, and support the role of the CRP in axial muscle tone. Longitudinal evaluation of CRP DTI metrics in the prediction of AIS progression may be clinically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C C Soh
- Singapore General Hospital, Singapore; Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - B Z Chen
- Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - S Hartono
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
| | - M S Lee
- Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - W Lee
- Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - S L Lim
- Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - J Gan
- Siemens Healthineers, Singapore
| | - B Maréchal
- Advanced Clinical Imaging Technology, Siemens Healthcare AG, Lausanne, Switzerland; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland; Signal Processing Laboratory (LTS 5), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - L L Chan
- Singapore General Hospital, Singapore; Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.
| | - Y L Lo
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore; National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore
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Pizones J, Chang DG, Suk SI, Izquierdo E. Current biomechanical theories on the etiopathogenesis of idiopathic scoliosis. Spine Deform 2024; 12:247-255. [PMID: 37975988 DOI: 10.1007/s43390-023-00787-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is great controversy about the etiologic origin of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Multiple theories have been suggested, including metabolic aspects, endocrine dysfunction, neurological central abnormalities, genetic predisposition and epigenetic factors involved in the development of scoliosis. However, there has always been speculations based on human biomechanical behavior. METHODS In this article, we performed a literature review on the biomechanical traits of human posture, and the proposed theories that explain the special characteristics present in idiopathic scoliosis. RESULTS The current theory on the etiopathogeneis of AIS suggests that dorsally directed shear loads acting on a preexisting axial plane rotation, in a posteriorly inclined sagittal plane of a growing patient, together with disc maturation, collagen quality at this phase of development and immaturity of proprioception, is the perfect scenario to spark rotational instability and create the three-dimensional deformity that defines idiopathic scoliosis. CONCLUSION The unique spinal alignment of human bipedalism, gravity and muscle forces acting straight above the pelvis to preserve an upright balance, and the instability of the soft tissue in a period of growth development, is an appealing cocktail to try to explain the genesis of this condition in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Pizones
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Spine Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Paseo de la Castellana 261, 28046, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Dong-Gune Chang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul, 50834, Korea
| | - Se-Il Suk
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, College of Medicine, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul, 50834, Korea
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Chu ECP, Lee WT, Tam DMY, Ng NY, Nur AB. Scoliosis Causing Cervical Dystonia in a Chiropractic Office. Cureus 2023; 15:e35802. [PMID: 36891176 PMCID: PMC9986506 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.35802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by continuous and involuntary muscular contractions that result in aberrant head and neck motions or postures. A recent study indicates that persons with a history of scoliosis may be at a higher risk of acquiring cervical dystonia later in life. Although muscular tension and contraction abnormalities are linked in both illnesses, the pathophysiological pathways linking these two ailments are not entirely understood. A 13-year-old boy previously diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis developed symptoms of cervical dystonia, including moderate neck pain, left-sided migraines, and tingling in the neck and shoulders. During the course of three months, the patient attended 16 chiropractic therapy sessions. He reported slow but considerable improvements in his symptoms, such as the recovery of normal cervical range of motion, decreases in neck discomfort and accompanying headaches as well as paresthesia, and enhancements in sleep quality, daily functioning, and learning capacities. The patient's clinical and radiographic improvements show that chiropractic spinal manipulation may assist in reducing pain and improving spine alignment and mobility in these circumstances. To further investigate the efficacy and safety of chiropractic therapy for the treatment of cervical dystonia, particularly in the setting of associated scoliosis, more study with bigger patient populations is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Chun-Pu Chu
- New York Medical Group (NYMG) Chiropractic Department, EC Healthcare, Hong Kong, HKG
| | - Wai Ting Lee
- Chiropractic Department, EC Healthcare, Kowloon, HKG
| | | | - Natalie Y Ng
- Chiropractic Department, EC Healthcare, Yuen Long, HKG
| | - Aimen B Nur
- Chiropractic Department, EC Healthcare, Mong Kok, HKG
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Is the Integration Problem in the Sensoriomotor System the Cause of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis? J Pediatr Orthop 2023; 43:e111-e119. [PMID: 36418290 DOI: 10.1097/bpo.0000000000002300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The reason behind the balance control disorder seen in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has been suggested as a central nervous system dysfunction, yet it has not been investigated in detail whether this problem originates from sensory, motor, or from both systems. This study aimed to reveal the differences in the pathways that provide proprioceptive sense, motor control, and coordination between these 2 systems in female individuals with AIS. METHODS Brain Diffusion Tensor Imaging was applied to 30 healthy individuals and 30 Lenke type 1 AIS patients. All of the individuals included in the study were predominantly right-handed and aged between 10 and 18. Diffusion tensor imaging of both groups were performed bilateral tractography on the corticospinal tract (CS tr), medial lemniscus (ML), superior longitudinal fasciculus (SLF), and inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF) tracts using DSI Studio software. RESULTS Significant differences in the parameters of CS tr, ML, SLF, ILF pathways were found between the AIS and the control groups. In the AIS group, significant differences were found in the fiber count and fiber ratio of the ML that carries the proprioceptive sense and CS tr, which is responsible for the somatomotor system. There were also significant differences between the left and right CS tr, ML, SLF, and ILF pathways of the AIS group ( P <0.05). CONCLUSIONS Differences in the CS tr, ML, SLF, and ILF pathways may trigger muscular asymmetry and cause postural instability and thus spinal deformity in AIS.
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Gómez Cristancho DC, Jovel Trujillo G, Manrique IF, Pérez Rodríguez JC, Díaz Orduz RC, Berbeo Calderón ME. Neurological mechanisms involved in idiopathic scoliosis. Systematic review of the literature. NEUROCIRUGIA (ENGLISH EDITION) 2023; 34:1-11. [PMID: 35256329 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucie.2022.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The literature that explains the neurological mechanisms underlying the development or compensation of idiopathic scoliosis is limited. The objective of the article is to describe and integrate the mechanisms and nerve pathways through which idiopathic scoliosis is compensated and/or developed. A narrative systematic review in different databases of the studies published between January 1, 1967 and April 1, 2021 was performed, using the following terms: "scoliosis", "vision", "eye", "vestibule", "labyrinth" "posture", "balance", "eye movements", "cerebellum", "proprioception", and "physiological adaptation". In the search, 1112 references were identified, of which 50 were finally included: 46 observational analytical clinical studies-descriptive (between cohorts, report and series of cases) and 4 experimental studies. In the neurological response to idiopathic scoliosis, the sensory-cortical integration of the afferences in the visual-oculomotor-vestibular-proprioceptive systems, allows modifications at the postural level in order to achieve an initial compensation on the sagittal balance and the centre of body mass; however, over time these compensation mechanisms may be exhausted causing progression of the initial deformity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Camilo Gómez Cristancho
- Médico General, Miembro Semillero Neurología y Neurocirugía, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana-Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Gabriela Jovel Trujillo
- Estudiante de Medicina, Miembro Semillero Neurología y Neurocirugía, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana-Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Iván Felipe Manrique
- Estudiante de Medicina, Miembro Semillero Neurología y Neurocirugía, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana-Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Roberto Carlos Díaz Orduz
- Médico Neurocirujano, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana-Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
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Boček V, Krbec M, Vaško P, Brabec K, Pavlíková M, Štětkářová I. Alteration of cortical but not spinal inhibitory circuits in idiopathic scoliosis. J Spinal Cord Med 2022; 45:186-193. [PMID: 32202478 PMCID: PMC8986185 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2020.1739893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), including the role of brain and spinal inhibitory circuits, is still poorly elucidated. The aim of this study was to identify which central inhibitory mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of AIS.Design: A prospective neurophysiological study, using a battery of neurophysiological tests, such as cutaneous (CuSP) and cortical (CoSP) silent periods, motor evoked potentials (MEP) and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (ppTMS).Settings: Neurophysiological laboratory.Participants: Sixteen patients with AIS (14 females, median age 14.4) and healthy controls.Outcome measures: MEPs were obtained after transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and recorded from the abductor pollicis muscle (APB). ppTMS was obtained at interval ratios (ISI) of 1, 2, 3, 6, 10, 15 and 20 ms. The cortical silent period (CoSP) was recorded from the APB. The cutaneous silent period (CuSP) was measured after painful stimuli delivered to the thumb while the subjects maintained voluntary contraction of the intrinsic hand muscles. The data were analyzed and compared with those from healthy subjects.Results: The CoSP duration was significantly prolonged in AIS patients. A significantly higher amplitude of ppTMS for ISI was found in all AIS patients, without remarkable left-right side differences. No significant difference in MEP latency or amplitude nor in the CuSP duration was obtained.Conclusion: Our observation demonstrates evidence of central nervous system involvement in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Lower intracortical inhibition, higher motor cortex excitability, and preserved spinal inhibitory circuits are the main findings of this study. A possible explanation of these changes could be attributed to impaired sensorimotor integration predominantly at the cortical level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Václav Boček
- Department of Neurology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic,Correspondence to: Václav Boček, Department of Neurology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Ruska 87, 100 00Prague 10, Czech Republic.
| | - Martin Krbec
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Peter Vaško
- Department of Neurology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Brabec
- Department of Neurology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic,Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Markéta Pavlíková
- Department of Probability and Mathematical Statistics, Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ivana Štětkářová
- Department of Neurology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Faculty Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady, Prague, Czech Republic
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Mecanismos neurológicos involucrados en la escoliosis idiopática. Revisión sistemática de la literatura. Neurocirugia (Astur) 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neucir.2021.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Wilczyński J. Relationship between Muscle Tone of the Erector Spinae and the Concave and Convex Sides of Spinal Curvature in Low-Grade Scoliosis among Children. CHILDREN 2021; 8:children8121168. [PMID: 34943364 PMCID: PMC8700255 DOI: 10.3390/children8121168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present research was to assess the relationship between muscle tone of the erector spinae and the concave and convex sides of spinal curvature in low-grade scoliosis found among children. The study included 251 children, aged 7–8. Examination of the spine and body posture was carried out using the Diers Formetric III 4D optoelectronic method. Surface electromyography (sEMG) was used to assess erector spinae muscle tone. The trial was carried out using the 14-channel Noraxon TeleMyo DTS apparatus. The highest generalised tone (sEMG amplitude) of the erector spinae occurred in the case of scoliosis. The higher the angle of curvature, the greater the erector spinae muscle tone. Regardless of the position adopted during examination of the thoracic spine, greater erector spinae tone (sEMG amplitude) was exhibited on the convex side of the spinal curvature. However, in the area of the lumbar spine, greater tone (sEMG amplitude) of the erector spinae occurred on the curvature’s concave side. The exception was the test performed in a standing position, during which greater muscle tone was noted on the side of the convex curvature. In therapeutic practice, within the thoracic section, too tense erector spinae muscles should be stretched on the convex side of the scoliosis, while in the lumbar region, this should be performed on the concave side. However, each case of scoliosis requires individually tailored treatment. The current research has applicative value and does fill a research gap with regard to erector spinae muscle tone in young children experiencing low-grade scoliosis. The development of scoliosis is associated with asymmetry and an increase in erector spinae tone. The uneven distribution of its tone, occurring on both sides of the spine and in its various segments, causes destabilisation and its abnormal progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Wilczyński
- Posturology Laboratory, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, 25-369 Kielce, Poland
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Wilczyński J, Karolak P. Relationship Between Electromyographic Frequency of the Erector Spinae and Location, Direction, and Number of Spinal Curvatures in Children with Scoliotic Changes. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:1881-1896. [PMID: 34007226 PMCID: PMC8121675 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s302360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between erector spinae electromyographic frequency (SEMG) and the location, direction and number of spinal curvatures in children with scoliotic changes. METHODS Analysis comprised 103 (42,21%) children with scoliosis and 141 (57.79%) with scoliotic posture. Body posture and the spine were examined using the Diers formetric III 4D optoelectronic method. Electromyographic analysis was performed using a 14-channel Noraxon TeleMyo DTS apparatus. RESULTS In girls, the highest mean SEMG frequency of the erector spinae, calculated from 16 measurements, occurred in the case of scoliotic posture (Mean = 73.69 Hz), while in boys, the greatest values were noted for scoliosis (Mean = 79.75 Hz). There was a significant correlation between erector spinae SEMG frequency and curvature location, both in the scoliosis group (p = 0.003) and in the group with scoliotic posture (p = 0.04). There was also a significant correlation between SEMG frequency of the erector spinae and direction of the curvature, both in the scoliosis (p = 0.01) and scoliotic posture groups (p = 0.04), as well as between the erector spinae SEMG frequency and the number of spinal curvatures (scoliosis group: p = 0.03; scoliotic posture group: p = 0.03). CONCLUSION The study is of applicative value and fills the gap in research on erector spinae SEMG frequency of in low-grade scoliosis among small children. Our research can also be used in research on the etiology and progression scoliosis. Visible disturbances in the erector spinae SEMG frequency (activity and tension) contribute to the development of curvature and testify to the fact that these changes are the primary cause of idiopathic scoliosis. Scoliosis is merely a symptom, an external expression of CNS dysfunction that is not fully recognised. It is also visible on the SEMG record of postural muscles. Our objective is to contribute to creating a future model record for SEMG of the postural muscles, characteristic for children with scoliosis. Then, based on electromyographic examination, it will be possible to identify initial symptoms of scoliosis and start preventive rehabilitation before irreversible bone changes occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Wilczyński
- Laboratory of Posturology, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Kielce, Poland
| | - Przemysław Karolak
- Laboratory of Posturology, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Kielce, Poland
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Increased EEG alpha peak frequency in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis during balance control in normal upright standing. Neurosci Lett 2020; 722:134836. [PMID: 32057922 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.134836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a multifactorial disorder characterized by a tridimensional deformation of the spine. AIS pathophysiology is still unclear and its aetiology is unknown. Results from several studies revealed balance control alterations in adolescents with AIS suggesting cortical sensorimotor processing impairments. Studies assessing cortical activity involved in balance control revealed an increase in alpha peak frequency (APF), which is a neurophysiological marker of thalamo-cortical transmission, related to a more challenging balance task. The objective of this study is to assess APF of adolescents with AIS during balance control in upright standing posture using electroencephalography (EEG). EEG was recorded in 16 girls with AIS and 15 control girls in normal standing posture on a force platform. The participants stood upright for 2 min with eyes open and 2 min with eyes closed. Fast Fourier transformations of EEG data were calculated to obtain APF. Balance performances were assessed through the area of an ellipse covering the center of pressure (COP) displacement and the root mean square value of the COP velocity. Compared to the control group, APF was higher in the AIS group at central, frontal, parietal and occipital regions. Further, COP analyses did not reveal any difference between AIS and control groups. A higher APF may indicate the need for increased cortical processing to maintain balance control in normal upright standing in adolescents with AIS compared to healthy controls. We suggest that this may be a compensatory strategy to overcome balance control challenges.
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Fortin C, Pialasse JP, Knoth IS, Lippé S, Duclos C, Simoneau M. Cortical dynamics of sensorimotor information processing associated with balance control in adolescents with and without idiopathic scoliosis. Clin Neurophysiol 2019; 130:1752-1761. [PMID: 31401484 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2019.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims at examining the cortical dynamics of sensorimotor information processing related to balance control in participants with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and in age-matched controls (CTL). METHODS Cortical dynamics during standing balance control were assessed in 13 girls with AIS and 13 age-matched controls using electroencephalography. Time-frequency analysis were used to determine frequency power during ankle proprioception alteration (ankle tendons co-vibration interval) or reintegration of ankle proprioception (post-vibration interval) with or without vision. RESULTS Balance control did not differ between groups. In the co-vibration interval, a significant suppression in alpha (8-12 Hz) and beta (13-30 Hz) band power and a significant increase in theta (4-7 Hz) band power were found respectively in the vision and non-vision condition in the AIS group compared to the CTL group. In the post-vibration interval, significant suppressions in beta (13-30 Hz) and gamma (30-50 Hz) band power were observed in the AIS group in the non-vision condition. CONCLUSION Participants with AIS showed brain oscillations differences compared to CTL in the sensorimotor cortex while controlling their balance in various sensory conditions. SIGNIFICANCE Future study using evaluation of cortical dynamics could serve documenting whether rehabilitation programs have an effect on sensorimotor function in AIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Fortin
- École de réadaptation, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Centre de recherche, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| | - Jean-Philippe Pialasse
- École de réadaptation, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Centre de recherche, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Sarah Lippé
- Centre de recherche, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Département de psychologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Cyril Duclos
- École de réadaptation, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain (CRIR), Institut de Réadaptation Gingras-Lindsay-de-Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Martin Simoneau
- Département de kinésiologie, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada; Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et intégration sociale (CIRRIS), Québec, Québec, Canada
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Bhandutia AK, Nangunoori R, Whiting DM, Sangimino MJ. Scoliosis Secondary to Dystonia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. JBJS Case Connect 2017; 7:e47. [PMID: 29252877 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.cc.16.00193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
CASE An adolescent girl presented with an atypical scoliotic curve, pelvic obliquity, back pain, and lower-extremity paresthesias. A workup revealed generalized primary torsion dystonia. The condition was refractory to medical treatment and necessitated implantation of a deep brain stimulator. The scoliosis required operative correction, and the patient underwent posterior spinal arthrodesis with hook-rod instrumentation, which resulted in successful correction through 7 years of follow-up. CONCLUSION The differential diagnosis for adolescent scoliosis should include dystonia as a potential cause, especially when a patient presents with muscular contractures, an atypical scoliotic curve, pelvic obliquity, or changing curve characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit K Bhandutia
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery (A.K.B. and M.J.S.) and Neurological Surgery (R.N. and D.M.W.), Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Stetkarova I, Zamecnik J, Bocek V, Vasko P, Brabec K, Krbec M. Electrophysiological and histological changes of paraspinal muscles in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2016; 25:3146-3153. [DOI: 10.1007/s00586-016-4628-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Burwell RG, Clark EM, Dangerfield PH, Moulton A. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS): a multifactorial cascade concept for pathogenesis and embryonic origin. SCOLIOSIS AND SPINAL DISORDERS 2016; 11:8. [PMID: 27252984 PMCID: PMC4888516 DOI: 10.1186/s13013-016-0063-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This paper formulates a novel multifactorial Cascade Concept for the pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). This Concept stems from the longitudinal findings of Clark et al. (J Bone Miner Res 29(8):1729-36, 2014) who identified leptin body composition factors at 10 years of age associated with a scoliosis deformity found at 15 years. We interpret these findings in the light of some concepts for AIS pathogenesis. In particular, we speculate that the leptin body composition effect is linked to central nervous system development and the initiation of the asynchronous neuro-osseous growth mechanism that involves the creation of a neuraxis tether of relative anterior vertebral overgrowth. The latter mechanism in combination with age and gender-related anatomical variants of vertebral backward tilt (dorsal shear concept), human upright posture, adolescent growth factors, Hueter-Volkmann effect in vertebrae and vertebral bone mass abnormalities, lead to AIS, possibly both initiation and progression of scoliosis curvatures. Being multifactorial, while the Cascade Concept cannot be tested for all its components, some components should be testable by the method of numerical simulation. Clark et al. (J Bone Miner Res 29(8):1729-36, 2014) also suggested the origin of scoliosis was in the embryonic stages of life from cell types, including adipocytes and osteoblasts, derived from the same progenitor cells, and myoblasts from mesodermal somites. The involvement of cell types from different developmental origins suggests a process acting in embryonic life at a similar time, probably environmental, as previously proposed from anthropometric studies. As a Complex disease, AIS will involve genetic, environmental and life style factors operating in development and growth; this possibility needs evaluating in epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Geoffrey Burwell
- Centre for Spinal Studies and Surgery, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Emma M Clark
- Academic Rheumatology, Musculoskeletal Research Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Alan Moulton
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, King's Mill Hospital, Mansfield, UK
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Motor and somatosensory abnormalities are significant etiological factors for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. J Neurol Sci 2015; 359:117-23. [PMID: 26671099 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2015.10.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), we explore the role of lateralized motor and somatosensory abnormalities as a possible etiological factor. METHODS Intraoperative transcranial electrical stimulation was performed in 15 AIS and 14 adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS) patients. Inter-side motor output balance (MOB) by comparing the ratios of right to left motor evoked potentials (MEP) amplitudes, and inter-side motor output excitability (MOE) computed with MEP amplitude, was determined separately for both patients groups. For somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP), peak to peak P37 amplitudes from right and left lower limb SSEP and inter-side P37 amplitude ratios were obtained. RESULTS Inter-side MOB was significantly asymmetric in AIS patients, contributed mainly by inter-side MOB changes in the upper than the lower limbs. Inter-side MOE comparisons of ipsilateral and contralateral MEP amplitudes were significantly different between AIS and ADS patients. Mean upper limb MEP amplitudes were significantly reduced in AIS patients. Amplitude of the right upper limb MEPs were positively correlated with inter-side MEP ratio. AIS patients show larger mean MEP amplitudes on the same side as the scoliotic curve. Overall, no correlation of Cobb's angle or total levels of scoliosis involvement with inter-side MOB and MOE parameters was found. Inter-side SSEP ratios were significantly higher in AIS patients. CONCLUSIONS Primary dysfunctional and distributed motor output contributing to abnormalities of inter-side MOB and MOE changes involving the upper limbs is evident in AIS. Simultaneous but independent somatosensory and motor observations seen these patients suggest a central mechanism as an etiological factor.
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Wang D, Shi L, Liu S, Hui SCN, Wang Y, Cheng JCY, Chu WCW. Altered topological organization of cortical network in adolescent girls with idiopathic scoliosis. PLoS One 2013; 8:e83767. [PMID: 24376742 PMCID: PMC3869815 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0083767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a multifactorial disease affecting approximately 1-4% of teenagers especially girls at the age of 10-16, but its etiopathogenesis remains uncertain. Previous study has revealed that the cortical thickness in AIS patients is different from that in normal controls. Cortical thickness measurements are known to be strongly correlated between regions that are axonally connected. Hence, a hypothesis is proposed to study the possibility to demonstrate abnormal structural network revealed by cortical thickness in AIS patients. The aim of the study is to investigate abnormalities in the organization of the brain cortical network in AIS patients. This study included 42 girls with severe idiopathic scoliosis (14.7±1.3 years old) and 41 age-matched normal controls (NC, 14.6±1.4 years old). The brain cortex was partitioned into 154 cortical regions based on gyral and sulcal structure. The interregional connectivity was measured as the statistical correlations between the regional mean thicknesses across the subjects. We employed the graph theoretic analysis to examine the alteration in interregional correlation, small-world efficiency, hub distribution, and regional nodal characteristics in AIS patients. We demonstrated that the cortical network of AIS patients fully preserved the small-world architecture and organization, and further verified the hemispheric asymmetry of AIS brain. Our results indicated increased central role of temporal and occipital cortex and decreased central role of limbic cortex in AIS patients compared with controls. Furthermore, decreased structural connectivity between hemispheres and increased connectivity in several cortical regions were observed. The findings of the study reveal the pattern of structural network alteration in AIS brain, and would help in understanding the mechanism and etiopathogenesis of AIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Defeng Wang
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
- Research Center for Medical Image Computing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Shun Hing Institute of Advanced Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lin Shi
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
- Research Center for Medical Image Computing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shangping Liu
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Steve C. N. Hui
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
- Research Center for Medical Image Computing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yongjun Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jack C. Y. Cheng
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Winnie C. W. Chu
- Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
- Research Center for Medical Image Computing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
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Domenech J, Barrios C, Tormos JM, Pascual-Leone Á. Somatosensory cortectomy induces motor cortical hyperexcitability and scoliosis: an experimental study in developing rats. Spine J 2013; 13:938-46. [PMID: 23623636 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2013.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2011] [Revised: 02/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT Dysfunctions in sensorimotor integration, reminiscent to those described in idiopathic dystonia, have been found in idiopathic scoliosis (IS) and might be involved in its pathogenesis. Studying the effects of experimental disruption of sensory cortex may shed further insight into the etiopathology of IS. PURPOSE To evaluate whether disruption of central sensorimotor integration through partial ablation of the somatosensory cortex leads to scoliosis in developing rats and to describe the effects of such an intervention on motor cortico-cortical inhibition and facilitation. METHODS Fifty Wistar rats aged 3 weeks were used in the study. Twenty-four rats underwent craniotomy and electrocoagulation of the sensory cortex (PAR1) in the right hemisphere. A second group of 16 rats underwent a sham operation with craniotomy but no electrocoagulation. A third group of 10 rats was used as intact controls. Four weeks after surgery, motor cortical excitability was assessed with paired-pulse electrical cortical stimulation. Neurologic and behavioral examinations were completed serially, and 10 weeks after surgery, X-ray examinations were performed in anesthetized rats to assess spinal curvature. Electromyographic recordings of paravertebral muscle activity were performed in waking rats. At the end of the study, rats were sacrificed, and histologic examinations of brain tissue were performed to confirm the extent of the lesion. A grant from a Government Health Research Fund without salaries assignment financed the study. RESULTS Almost half of the animals with somatosensory cortectomy (46%) developed scoliosis, with an average Cobb angle of 23 ± 8°. None of the animals in the sham or control groups developed scoliosis. Despite cortical lesions, no motor or behavioral deficits were apparent in the experimental group, and cortectomized rats were neurologically indistinguishable from sham or control animals, except for the presence of scoliosis. Cortico-cortical inhibition was significantly reduced in the hemisphere of scoliotic concavity in the cortectomized group but was normal in the other groups. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that altered sensorimotor integration may cause scoliosis without noticeable motor impairment. Reduced cortico-cortical inhibition was observed in cortectomized rats. This finding is consistent with results in adolescents with IS and suggests that alteration of cortical hemispheric balance of sensorimotor integration may play an important role in the pathogenesis of IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Domenech
- Orthopedic Surgery Department, Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, Faculty of Health Science, Cardenal Herrera-CEU University, Calle San Clemente 12, 46015 Valencia, Spain.
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Grivas TB, Burwell GR, Dangerfield PH. Body mass index in relation to truncal asymmetry of healthy adolescents, a physiopathogenetic concept in common with idiopathic scoliosis: summary of an electronic focus group debate of the IBSE. SCOLIOSIS 2013; 8:10. [PMID: 23799971 PMCID: PMC3702412 DOI: 10.1186/1748-7161-8-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
There is no generally accepted scientific theory for the cause of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). As part of its mission to widen understanding of scoliosis etiology, the International Federated Body on Scoliosis Etiology (IBSE).introduced the electronic focus group (EFG) as a means of increasing debate on knowledge of important topics. This has been designated as an on-line Delphi discussion. The text for this debate was written by Dr TB Grivas. It is based on published research from Athens, Greece evaluating schoolchildren age 11-17 years for the relation of body mass index (BMI) to each of truncal asymmetry (TA) and menarcheal status. Girls with relatively lower BMI were found to have a significant excess of severe TAs and significantly later menarche confirming the well-known relation of BMI to menarche. Together with other evidence linking nutritional status to skeletal growth, the observations suggest energy balance via the hypothalamus is related to trunk asymmetry. As with a recent speculative hypothesis for the pathogenesis of AIS in girls, Grivas et al. suggest that the severe TAs involve a genetically-determined selectively increased sensitivity (up-regulation) of the hypothalamus to circulating leptin with asymmetry as an adverse response to stress (hormesis). The TA is expressed bilaterally via the sympathetic nervous system to produce left-right asymmetry in ribs and/or vertebrae leading to severe TAs when beyond the capacity of postural mechanisms of the somatic nervous system to control the shape distortion in the trunk. This EFG discusses the findings and interpretations of the paper by Grivas and colleagues as research at the borderland between the genesis of TA (physiogenesis) and AIS (pathogenesis). It is suggested that TAs, here regarded in common with AIS, result from the combination of secondary sexual development affecting body composition, adolescent skeletal growth velocity, and an asymmetry process. The possible involvement of epigenetic factors is not considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodoros B Grivas
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedics, “Tzanio” General Hospital, Tzani and Afendouli 1st, Piraeus 18536, Greece
| | - Geoffrey R Burwell
- Centre for Spinal Studies and Surgery, Nottingham University Hospitals Trust, Queen’s Medical Centre Campus, Derby Road, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Peter H Dangerfield
- University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, L69 3GE, Liverpool, UK
- Staffordshire University, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2DF, UK
- Royal Liverpool Children’s Hospital, Eaton Road, Liverpool L12 2AP, UK
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Jinnah HA, Berardelli A, Comella C, Defazio G, Delong MR, Factor S, Galpern WR, Hallett M, Ludlow CL, Perlmutter JS, Rosen AR. The focal dystonias: current views and challenges for future research. Mov Disord 2013; 28:926-43. [PMID: 23893450 PMCID: PMC3733486 DOI: 10.1002/mds.25567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2013] [Revised: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The most common forms of dystonia are those that develop in adults and affect a relatively isolated region of the body. Although these adult-onset focal dystonias are most prevalent, knowledge of their etiologies and pathogenesis has lagged behind some of the rarer generalized dystonias, in which the identification of genetic defects has facilitated both basic and clinical research. This summary provides a brief review of the clinical manifestations of the adult-onset focal dystonias, focusing attention on less well understood clinical manifestations that need further study. It also provides a simple conceptual model for the similarities and differences among the different adult-onset focal dystonias as a rationale for lumping them together as a class of disorders while at the same time splitting them into subtypes. The concluding section outlines some of the most important research questions for the future. Answers to these questions are critical for advancing our understanding of this group of disorders and for developing novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- H A Jinnah
- Department of Neurology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA.
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Burwell RG, Dangerfield PH, Moulton A, Grivas TB, Cheng JC. Whither the etiopathogenesis (and scoliogeny) of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis? Incorporating presentations on scoliogeny at the 2012 IRSSD and SRS meetings. SCOLIOSIS 2013; 8:4. [PMID: 23448588 PMCID: PMC3608974 DOI: 10.1186/1748-7161-8-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2012] [Accepted: 02/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This paper aims to integrate into current understanding of AIS causation, etiopathogenetic information presented at two Meetings during 2012 namely, the International Research Society of Spinal Deformities (IRSSD) and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS). The ultimate hope is to prevent the occurrence or progression of the spinal deformity of AIS with non-invasive treatment, possibly medical. This might be attained by personalised polymechanistic preventive therapy targeting the appropriate etiology and/or etiopathogenetic pathways, to avoid fusion and maintain spinal mobility. Although considerable progress had been made in the past two decades in understanding the etiopathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), it still lacks an agreed theory of etiopathogenesis. One problem may be that AIS results not from one cause, but several that interact with various genetic predisposing factors. There is a view there are two other pathogenic processes for idiopathic scoliosis namely, initiating (or inducing), and those that cause curve progression. Twin studies and observations of family aggregation have revealed significant genetic contributions to idiopathic scoliosis, that place AIS among other common disease or complex traits with a high heritability interpreted by the genetic variant hypothesis of disease. We summarize etiopathogenetic knowledge of AIS as theories of pathogenesis including recent multiple concepts, and blood tests for AIS based on predictive biomarkers and genetic variants that signify disease risk. There is increasing evidence for the possibility of an underlying neurological disorder for AIS, research which holds promise. Like brain research, most AIS workers focus on their own corner and there is a need for greater integration of research effort. Epigenetics, a relatively recent field, evaluates factors concerned with gene expression in relation to environment, disease, normal development and aging, with a complex regulation across the genome during the first decade of life. Research on the role of environmental factors, epigenetics and chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including adiposity, after a slow start, has exploded in the last decade. Not so for AIS research and the environment where, except for monozygotic twin studies, there are only sporadic reports to suggest that environmental factors are at work in etiology. Here, we examine epigenetic concepts as they may relate to human development, normal life history phases and AIS pathogenesis. Although AIS is not regarded as an NCD, like them, it is associated with whole organism metabolic phenomena, including lower body mass index, lower circulating leptin levels and other systemic disorders. Some epigenetic research applied to Silver-Russell syndrome and adiposity is examined, from which suggestions are made for consideration of AIS epigenetic research, cross-sectional and longitudinal. The word scoliogeny is suggested to include etiology, pathogenesis and pathomechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Geoffrey Burwell
- Centre for Spinal Studies and Surgery, Nottingham University Hospitals Trust, Queen's Medical Centre Campus, Derby Road, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
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Leon-Sarmiento FE, Pradilla G, Del Rosario Zambrano M. Primary and Reversible Pisa Syndrome in Juvenile Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2013; 25:57-60. [PMID: 23794788 PMCID: PMC3686565 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-5215.2012.00657.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report a case of Pisa syndrome in a patient with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, who had never been exposed to psychotropic medications. METHODS A 26 years-old, Colombian, male patient, was referred because he had cognitive abnormalities, gait disturbances and urinary incontinence. This patient also displayed pleurothotonos. Neurofunctional evaluation of sensory and motor integration at peripheral and central nervous system levels were done. RESULTS Pisa syndrome disappeared after spinal tap drainage with further gait, balance and behavioral improvement. A brainstem-thalamocortical deregulation of the central sensory and motor programming, due to the chaotic enlargement of brain ventricles was thought to be the pathophysiological mechanism underlying this case. CONCLUSION NPH must not be longer considered as an exclusive geriatric disorder. Further, uncommon movement disorders may appear with this disorder, which should be carefully approached to avoid iatrogenic and deleterious pharmacological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fidias E Leon-Sarmiento
- Smell and Taste Center, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA ; Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, PA, USA ; Unit of Parkinson and Movement Disorders, Mediciencias Research Group; Professor of Neurology and Neuroscience, Unit of Aerospace Medicine, Universidad Nacional, Bogota, Colombia ; Human Aerospace Laboratory, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Wang D, Shi L, Chu WC, Burwell RG, Cheng JC, Ahuja AT. Abnormal cerebral cortical thinning pattern in adolescent girls with idiopathic scoliosis. Neuroimage 2012; 59:935-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2011.07.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2011] [Revised: 07/11/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Burwell RG, Dangerfield PH, Moulton A, Grivas TB. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), environment, exposome and epigenetics: a molecular perspective of postnatal normal spinal growth and the etiopathogenesis of AIS with consideration of a network approach and possible implications for medical therapy. SCOLIOSIS 2011; 6:26. [PMID: 22136338 PMCID: PMC3293085 DOI: 10.1186/1748-7161-6-26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Genetic factors are believed to play an important role in the etiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Discordant findings for monozygotic (MZ) twins with AIS show that environmental factors including different intrauterine environments are important in etiology, but what these environmental factors may be is unknown. Recent evidence for common chronic non-communicable diseases suggests epigenetic differences may underlie MZ twin discordance, and be the link between environmental factors and phenotypic differences. DNA methylation is one important epigenetic mechanism operating at the interface between genome and environment to regulate phenotypic plasticity with a complex regulation across the genome during the first decade of life. The word exposome refers to the totality of environmental exposures from conception onwards, comprising factors in external and internal environments. The word exposome is used here also in relation to physiologic and etiopathogenetic factors that affect normal spinal growth and may induce the deformity of AIS. In normal postnatal spinal growth we propose a new term and concept, physiologic growth-plate exposome for the normal processes particularly of the internal environments that may have epigenetic effects on growth plates of vertebrae. In AIS, we propose a new term and concept pathophysiologic scoliogenic exposome for the abnormal processes in molecular pathways particularly of the internal environment currently expressed as etiopathogenetic hypotheses; these are suggested to have deforming effects on the growth plates of vertebrae at cell, tissue, structure and/or organ levels that are considered to be epigenetic. New research is required for chromatin modifications including DNA methylation in AIS subjects and vertebral growth plates excised at surgery. In addition, consideration is needed for a possible network approach to etiopathogenesis by constructing AIS diseasomes. These approaches may lead through screening, genetic, epigenetic, biochemical, metabolic phenotypes and pharmacogenomic research to identify susceptible individuals at risk and modulate abnormal molecular pathways of AIS. The potential of epigenetic-based medical therapy for AIS cannot be assessed at present, and must await new research derived from the evaluation of epigenetic concepts of spinal growth in health and deformity. The tenets outlined here for AIS are applicable to other musculoskeletal growth disorders including infantile and juvenile idiopathic scoliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Geoffrey Burwell
- Centre for Spinal Studies and Surgery, Nottingham University Hospitals Trust, Queen's Medical Centre Campus, Derby Road, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Peter H Dangerfield
- University of Liverpool, Ashton Street, L69 3GE, UK
- Staffordshire University, Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2DF. UK
- Royal Liverpool Children's Hospital, Eaton Road, Liverpool, L12 2AP, UK
| | - Alan Moulton
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, King's Mill Hospital, Sutton Road, Mansfield NG17 4JL, UK
| | - Theodoros B Grivas
- Department of Trauma and Orthopedics, "Tzanio" General Hospital, Tzani and Afendouli 1 st, Piraeus 18536, Greece.co.uk
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McMaster ME. Heated indoor swimming pools, infants, and the pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a neurogenic hypothesis. Environ Health 2011; 10:86. [PMID: 21975145 PMCID: PMC3213202 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-10-86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a case-control study a statistically significant association was recorded between the introduction of infants to heated indoor swimming pools and the development of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). In this paper, a neurogenic hypothesis is formulated to explain how toxins produced by chlorine in such pools may act deleteriously on the infant's immature central nervous system, comprising brain and spinal cord, to produce the deformity of AIS. PRESENTATION OF THE HYPOTHESIS Through vulnerability of the developing central nervous system to circulating toxins, and because of delayed epigenetic effects, the trunk deformity of AIS does not become evident until adolescence. In mature healthy swimmers using such pools, the circulating neurotoxins detected are chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane, and bromoform. Cyanogen chloride and dichloroacetonitrile have also been detected. TESTING THE HYPOTHESIS In infants, the putative portals of entry to the blood could be dermal, oral, or respiratory; and entry of such circulating small molecules to the brain are via the blood-brain barrier, blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier, and circumventricular organs. Barrier mechanisms of the developing brain differ from those of adult brain and have been linked to brain development. During the first 6 months of life cerebrospinal fluid contains higher concentrations of specific proteins relative to plasma, attributed to mechanisms continued from fetal brain development rather than immaturity. IMPLICATIONS OF THE HYPOTHESIS The hypothesis can be tested. If confirmed, there is potential to prevent some children from developing AIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne E McMaster
- Scottish National Paediatric Spine Deformity Centre, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK.
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Domenech J, García-Martí G, Martí-Bonmatí L, Barrios C, Tormos JM, Pascual-Leone A. Abnormal activation of the motor cortical network in idiopathic scoliosis demonstrated by functional MRI. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2011; 20:1069-78. [PMID: 21499781 PMCID: PMC3176702 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-011-1776-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2010] [Revised: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aetiology of idiopathic scoliosis (IS) remains unknown, but there is growing support for the possibility of an underlying neurological disorder. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can characterize the abnormal activation of the sensorimotor brain network in movement disorders and could provide further insights into the neuropathogenesis of IS. Twenty subjects were included in the study; 10 adolescents with IS (mean age of 15.2, 8 girls and 2 boys) and 10 age-matched healthy controls. The average Cobb angle of the primary curve in the IS patients was 35° (range 27°-55°). All participants underwent a block-design fMRI experiment in a 1.5-Tesla MRI scanner to explore cortical activation following a simple motor task. Rest periods alternated with activation periods during which participants were required to open and close their hand at an internally paced rate of approximately 1 Hz. Data were analyzed with Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM5) including age, sex and laterality as nuisance variables to minimise the presence of bias in the results. Compared to controls, IS patients showed significant increases in blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) activity in contralateral supplementary motor area when performing the motor task with either hand. No significant differences were observed when testing between groups in the functional activation in the primary motor cortex, premotor cortex and somatosensory cortex. Additionally, the IS group showed a greater interhemispheric asymmetry index than the control group (0.30 vs. 0.13, p < 0.001). This study demonstrates an abnormal pattern of brain activation in secondary motor areas during movement execution in patients with IS. These findings support the hypothesis that a sensorimotor integration disorder underlies the pathogenesis of IS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio Domenech
- Orthopedic Surgery Department, Hospital Arnau de Vilanova, Valencia, Spain.
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Freeman BJC. Reviewer's comment concerning ''Abnormal activation of the motor cortical network in idiopathic scoliosis demonstrated by functional MRI'' (doi:10.1007/s00586-011-1776-8) by J. Domenech et al. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2011; 20:1079-80. [PMID: 21556729 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-011-1833-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian J C Freeman
- Department of Spinal Surgery, Royal Adelaide Hospital, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia.
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