Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis
("DISH" or Forestier Disease)
Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
What is diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis?
Diffuse idiopathic skeletal
hyperostosis (DISH) has also been called Forestier's disease. It is
considered a form of degenerative
arthritis. However, DISH is characterized by unique, flowing calcification along the sides of the vertebrae of
the spine. And, very unlike typical degenerative arthritis, it's also commonly associated with inflammation
(tendinitis) and calcification of tendons at their
attachments points to bone. This can lead to the formation of bone spurs, such as heel spurs. In fact, heel spurs are common among individuals with DISH.
What are symptoms of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis?
Symptoms of DISH include intermittent
pains in the areas of the bony changes of the spine and inflamed
tendons. Stiffness and dull pain, particularly in the upper and lower back, are common. Sometimes pains in these areas can be sharp with certain body movements, such as twisting or bending over.
DISH is only slowly progressive. Calcifications between the vertebrae occur over many years. This calcification can lead to limitation of motion of the involved areas of the spine.
Does diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis damage organs?
There is no associated threat to any internal organs with this
disorder. Rarely, large bone spurs can form in front of the spinal
vertebrae of the neck. These spurs occasionally interfere with the passage of
food through the upper esophagus (swallowing tube).
How is diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis treated?
Because areas of the spine and
tendons can become inflamed, anti-inflammatory medications
(NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and Naproxen, can be helpful in both relieving pain
and inflammation of DISH. It is hoped that by minimizing inflammation in
these areas, further calcification of tendons and ligaments of
the spine leading to calcific bony outgrowths (osteophytes) will
be prevented.
For further information, please read the Osteoarthritis article.
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From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com  |
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- Osteoarthritis - Osteoarthritis (degenerative arthritis) is a joint disease caused by the breakdown and loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. With repetitive use, pain, swelling, warmth, and creaking may be noticed in the affected joint. Though weight loss and avoiding stress on the joint will reduce joint pain and inflammation, there is no specific treatment for osteoarthritis. Source:MedicineNet
- Heel Spurs - Get information on heel spurs and plantar fasciitis causes, symptoms (heel pain) and treatment (cortisone injection, surgery, running shoes). Achilles tendon inflammation is associated with heel spurs. Source:MedicineNet
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Last Editorial Review: 9/26/2007
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