Question:
A 65 year old lady presents with backache. Based on the following radiograph of the spine shown in the image, what should be the most likely diagnosis?
A 65 year old lady presents with backache. Based on the following radiograph of the spine shown in the image, what should be the most likely diagnosis?
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A vertebra slipping forward on the one below indicates spondylolisthesis.
Updated On: Jun 23, 2026
- Osteoporosis
- Spondylolisthesis
- Spondylolysis
- Discitis
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Verified By Collegedunia
The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: The radiograph shows anterior subluxation of one lumbar vertebra over the one below it - the classic appearance of spondylolisthesis (here L5 slipping anterior to S1).
Step 2: Spondylolisthesis is forward slippage of a lumbar vertebra, most often at L3-L4, L4-L5 or L5-S1. It results from a defect in the pars interarticularis (spondylolysis).
Step 3: In older patients (over 60) it commonly occurs with osteoarthritis and minimal trauma, fitting this 65 year old lady with backache.
Step 4: Spondylolysis (option c) is only the pars defect without slippage, osteoporosis (a) causes diffuse demineralisation, and discitis (d) is disc-space infection - none match a visible vertebral slip, so spondylolisthesis is correct.
Step 2: Spondylolisthesis is forward slippage of a lumbar vertebra, most often at L3-L4, L4-L5 or L5-S1. It results from a defect in the pars interarticularis (spondylolysis).
Step 3: In older patients (over 60) it commonly occurs with osteoarthritis and minimal trauma, fitting this 65 year old lady with backache.
Step 4: Spondylolysis (option c) is only the pars defect without slippage, osteoporosis (a) causes diffuse demineralisation, and discitis (d) is disc-space infection - none match a visible vertebral slip, so spondylolisthesis is correct.
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