American Journal of Roentgenology, Vol 145, Issue 6, 1293-1295
Copyright © 1985 by American Roentgen Ray Society
Tall vertebrae at birth: a radiographic finding in flaccid infants
JS Donaldson,
V Gilsanz,
G Gonzalez,
RA Wittel,
and
F Gilles
It has been well documented that children with severe neuromuscular disorders have tall vertebrae, presumably a consequence of altered mechanical forces. This finding was present in four neonates who were born with severe "floppy" hypotonia due to Werdnig-Hoffmann disease (two cases), nonspecific neonatal myopathy, and congenital muscular dystrophy. Fetal vertebral development is normally modified by intrauterine muscle tension and fetal activity.