Imaging characteristics of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis with an emphasis on acute spinal fractures: review.

Objective: The educational objectives of this self-assessment module are for the participant to exercise, self-assess, and improve his or her understanding of the imaging of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH), with emphasis on acute spinal fractures.

Conclusion: Understanding the pathomechanics of the fractures in the ankylosed spine is important in the differentiation of the acute spinal fractures in DISH and ankylosing spondylitis. This article emphasizes the imaging features of spinal DISH and acute spinal fractures in DISH, distinguishing them specifically from those in ankylosing spondylitis.