Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH): New evidence from micro-XCT scanning.

Objective: To observe and describe the development and underlying structure of the spinal manifestations of individuals osteologically diagnosed with DISH (Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis), using micro-XCT imaging.

Materials: A total of 72 individuals with DISH were identified in two modern skeletal collections in South Africa.

Methods: Vertebral columns affected by DISH were scanned at the micro-focus x-ray computed tomography facility at the Nuclear Energy Corporation of South Africa.

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis: Diagnostic, clinical, and paleopathological considerations.

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a disease primarily affecting the spine. However, it is also associated with the ossification/calcification of tendon, ligament, and capsule insertions (entheses) occurring at multiple peripheral sites. The etiology of the condition is unknown, as the name suggests (diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis), although some correlations with diabetes mellitus, obesity, and age have been noted.