Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH). Report of one case

Abstract

Forestier Disease, or Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH), causes a considerable ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament of the spine. When it involves cervical segments, it can be accompanied by dysphagia, dysphonia and/or dyspnea. This entity usually has a benign course. Surgical treatment is required for progressive cases. We report a s72-year-old male with a history of chronic cervical pain and slight neck stiffness. On the imaging studies, there was an exuberant ossification of the anterior longitudinal ligament, at the cervical spine level, between C2 and C7. He was managed conservatively without clinical deterioration in a six-year follow-up.