Researchers analyzed the various intervertebral disc phenotypes associated with lumbar disc degeneration, according to The Spine Journal study. They looked at the inter-correlations, risk factor association and SNP- heritabilities of lumbar disc MRI features.
The study involved 2,943 patients.
Here are five observations:
1. Researchers found lumbar disc MRI features separated into two groups representing differential patterns of risk factor associations.
2. A developmental origin may associate with a subset of lumbar disc abnormalities, such as endplate changes.
3. As patients age, subsequent degenerative changes occur and correlate with BMI.
4. Researchers concluded there are two patterns of lumbar disc alternations, with an emphasis on degenerative changes and development components.
5. With the new classification, researchers believe their study will help define a homogenous phenotype. The findings may also aid disc degeneration prevention.