Inflammation and Infection: Baastrup’s Disease

Abstract

Baastrup’s disease is a degenerative condition caused by the weakening of the interspinous and supraspinous ligaments resulting in a progressive inflammatory process between the posterior aspects of the spinous processes of the lumbar spine. It typically causes midline pain exacerbated by extension. Bone SPECT/CT shows increased focal uptake between the affected spinous processes and enlargement, flattening, and reactive sclerosis of the opposing surfaces. Imaging findings often show other coexisting degenerative changes in the spine.