Abstract
The degeneration of the intervertebral disc results from several multifactorial pathophysiologic processes. Here, we discuss the anatomy of the intervertebral disc along with a presentation of several pathologic processes including vascular insufficiency (possibly due to cigarette exposure and endothelial dysfunction), anatomic variations, poor nutritional status, infections, autoimmune and/or inflammatory processes, genetic predispositions and iatrogenic occurrences as well as exposure to drugs or toxins that lead to degeneration of the disc. This brief overview establishes a necessary starting point for the understanding of these processes as well as a preview into potential therapeutic targets.
Original language | English (US) |
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Title of host publication | Intervertebral Disc Degeneration |
Subtitle of host publication | Prevalence, Risk Factors and Treatments |
Publisher | Nova Science Publishers, Inc. |
Pages | 1-16 |
Number of pages | 16 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781634858571 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781634858298 |
State | Published - Jan 1 2016 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Medicine(all)