Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) - A common but less known cause of back pain

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a systemic non-inflammatory disease of an unknown aetiology. It is characterized by ossification of the enthesis and may significantly affect the quality of life of the affected individuals. Despite the fact that this disease was first described more than 60 years ago and is a relatively common condition in the society, its awareness among clinician is still limited. An awareness of this entity and its mimicking conditions is essential so as to reach to an early diagnosis and avoid unnecessary investigations and treatment.