Lumbar Disc Herniation Associated with Severe Scoliosis in Young Age: Report of Three Cases

ABSTRACT

Intervertebral disc herniation is rare in adolescence, although several cases have been reported in the literature. We present three cases of lumbar disc herniation with low back pain and severe scoliosis (Cobb angle greater than 20 degrees). The patients had no prior history of trauma or collagen disease. Preoperative MRI scans showed L3-L4 (case 1), L4-L5 (case 3) and L5-S1 (case 2) disc herniations with no other bony or structural changes. Following discectomy, patient pain resolved, and scoliosis improved without further treatment. We conclude that severe scoliosis associated with disc herniation in young patients is likely secondary to pain and is not indicative of further structural changes.