Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH)

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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is calcification or a bony hardening of ligaments in areas where they attach to your spine.

Also known as Forestier's disease, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis causes stiffness in your upper back and may also affect your neck and lower back. Some people experience diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis beyond the spine in areas such as their heels, ankles, knees, hips, shoulders, elbows and hands.

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis often causes no symptoms, though stiffness and pain along affected ligaments can occur. You may not need treatment for diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis if you don't have symptoms, though physical therapy may help you maintain range of motion in your affected joints.

References
  1. Esdaile JM. Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH). http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed April 13, 2010.
  2. Alparslan L, et al. Imaging modalities in rheumatic disease. In: Firestein GS, et al. Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: W.B. Saunders Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/194678336-3/982047756/1807/375.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-3285-4..10053-1--s1130_1650. Accessed April 13, 2010.
  3. Srikulmontree T, et al. Chronic neck pain. American Family Physician. 2009;79:595.
  4. Bearcroft PPW, et al. Joint disease. In: Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier; 2009. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/194678336-4/982052379/1611/54.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-443-10163-2..50053-1--cesec9_2701. Accessed April 13, 2010.
  5. Chang-Miller A (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. April 18, 2010.
DS00740 May 18, 2010

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