J Med Assoc Thai 2017; 100 (5):533

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Original ArticleOpen Access
Prevalence of Idiopathic Scoliosis in Thai Female Students Aged 11-13 Years
Kunakornsawat S Mail, Popan N , Piyaskulkaew C , Pruttikul P , Pluemvitayaporn T , Kittithamvongs P

Background: Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common cause of abnormal curvature of the spine. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most common subcategory of idiopathic scoliosis. Prevalence rates of idiopathic scoliosis vary from 0.35% to 13%, depending on the defined Cobb angles, screening age, sex, regional and ethnic variations. Several professional organizations recommend screening for scoliosis in schools. The screening age is 11-13 years for girls, which corresponds to the ages of peak skeletal growth.

Objective: To study the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis in Thai female students aged 11-13 years.

Material and Method: Screening for scoliosis was performed in 1,818 Thai female students aged 11-13 years. Adam’s forward bending test was performed. The scoliometer was used for measurement of curves noting the highest degree of angle of trunk rotation (ATR). Those who exhibited ATR of 6 degrees or greater, would then be referred to Lerdsin General Hospital for a standing whole spine radiographics. Idiopathic scoliosis in the present study was defined as students who have a Cobb angle of greater than 10 degrees from whole spine radiographs and have no cause of scoliosis.

Results: eighty four girls had scoliosis (4.62%). The cause of scoliosis was found in 3 girls. Right thoracic curve was the most common curve pattern.

Conclusion: The prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis in Thai female students aged 11-13 years was 4.46%.

Keywords: adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, AIS, prevalence, female


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