What Causes Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis?

Posted on Wed, 1 Feb 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 1 Feb 2017 Answered on

Mon, 27 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : what is DISH? should i be scared of it?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (26 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

DISH refers to diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, in other words, a tendency of ligaments and joints ossification.

Complications include reduced spine mobility and fractures of vertebrae, in rare cases compression of esophagus may lead to swallowing difficulties.

Only in case of complications you should be worried.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Feel free to ask further.
Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (47 minutes later)

I went to a chiropractor and she took xrays then told me I had this and that she couldnt treat me and to look it up on the internet. everything I read and comments made in groups sounded like it was really bad and I was worried about my life with it.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (9 hours later)

Brief Answer:
May cause disability.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back.

DISH affects mainly spinal column, and may result in disability, pain, fracture, but is not considered a life threatening condition.

While there is no cure for this condition, symptomatic treatment and exercises should be continued.

Discuss with your Doctor about these issues.

Hope I helped you.

Kind regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana