Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine characterized by a progressive sideways twisting and rotation of the spine, ribs and pelvis. In addition to its structural manifestations, scoliosis can severely impair neurological, hormonal, and nutritional systems especially as the degree of the curve worsens. Idiopathic scoliosis accounts for 80 percent of diagnosed scoliosis cases.
According to a recent company announcement, Axial Biotech of Salt Lake City has reached a major scientific milestone in the development of its genetic prognostic test for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). The company that chased down genetic markers in Mormon families with histories of AIS by attending family gatherings and reunions, and it became the first company to pursue DNA-based predictive tests for common spinal conditions.
This may allow spine surgeons to identify adolescents who would be highly likely to develop curvature of the spine and offer appropriate treatments. This knowledge can save kids from invasive procedures and unnecessary, often tortuous devices.
John Climaco, Axial's President and CEO, who was a presenter at our last two Spine Tech Summits said, “For surgeons, patients, and their families, the significance of a genetic prognostic test for AIS, which can discriminate between progressive and non-progressive cases of the disease, is difficult to overestimate. It will positively impact the lives of thousands of children.
(Excerpted from the company's press release)
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