Kyphoscoliosis describes an abnormal curvature of the spine. Kyphoscoliosis combines kyphosis--a curve in the spine resulting in a hunchback--and scoliosis, a side-to-side curve in the spine. Kyphoscoliosis often occurs as a result of a spinal compression fracture, the most common type of fracture of the spine, according to the Internet Society of Orthopedic Surgery and Trauma. Compression fractures cause the bone to lose height, resulting in a spinal deformity resembling a hunchback. Several conditions cause compression fractures that lead to kyphoscoliosis.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis, also called porous bone disease, causes bones to deteriorate. Osteoporosis affects approximately 10 million Americans, with another 34 million at risk for developing the disease, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. Many who suffer from osteoporosis have no symptoms since weak bones cannot be felt. As the disease progresses, however, bones become susceptible to fracture, especially the bones of the hips and spine.
Vertebrae weakened by osteoporosis can fracture during simple activities such as coughing, twisting or lifting light objects. Once a compression fracture occurs, the spine loses height and becomes deformed, resulting in kyphoscoliosis.
Trauma
Trauma to the spine can also lead to a vertebral compression fracture, according to Medline Plus. Trauma that would cause a compression fracture leading to kyphoscoliosis includes falls in which the patient lands on her buttocks or a hard blow to the head.
Tumors
A tumor that develops in or near the spinal cord or the bones of the spine can cause kyphoscoliosis. Cancerous tumors, those which develop due to the abnormal growth of cells, can spread to other parts of the body and cause life-threatening disease. Non-cancerous tumors, while not necessarily dangerous in other parts of the body, cause concern in the spinal area since they can impede on nerves, interfere movement and cause pain or paralysis. Both types of tumors, depending on how large and what part of the spine is affected, can lead to spinal deformity and kyphoscoliosis.
Symptoms of a spinal tumor include back pain, which often radiates to other parts of the body, muscle weakness, difficulty walking, loss of bowel or bladder function and paralysis. If the tumor impedes on the spinal cord, it may become life-threatening, according to the Mayo Clinic.
