Frostburg’s reverse 3 sign is seen in –
**Frostburg's Reverse 3 Sign**
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**Core Concept**
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Frostburg's reverse 3 sign is a radiological finding associated with a specific condition affecting the spinal column. It is characterized by a triangular shape formed by the reversal of the normal lumbar lordosis, resulting in a "reverse 3" appearance on radiographs. This occurs due to the loss of lordosis in the lumbar region and the preservation or increase of lordosis in the thoracic region.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
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Frostburg's reverse 3 sign is seen in ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine. The disease leads to the fusion of the vertebrae, resulting in a loss of spinal mobility and the characteristic radiological findings. The reversed lordosis is a result of the abnormal bone formation and fusion, which causes the spine to adopt an abnormal posture.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
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* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because Frostburg's reverse 3 sign is not typically associated with degenerative disc disease, which primarily causes wear and tear on the intervertebral discs.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because osteoporosis does not typically cause a reversal of the normal lumbar lordosis, but rather a loss of bone density and vertebral compression fractures.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because spondylolisthesis is a condition where one vertebra slips forward over another, which can cause a loss of lordosis, but it is not typically associated with the characteristic "reverse 3" sign.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
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Frostburg's reverse 3 sign is a key radiological finding in ankylosing spondylitis, and its recognition can aid in the diagnosis of this condition.
**Correct Answer:** B. Ankylosing spondylitis