What imaging finding is associated with Scheuermann's disease in adolescents?

Scheuermann's disease, also known as adolescent kyphosis, is characterized primarily by anterior wedging of the thoracic vertebrae, leading to kyphotic deformity in the spinal column. The imaging findings associated with this condition typically show epiphyseal plate disturbances, which can result in the characteristic wedging of the anterior part of the vertebral bodies. This wedging occurs due to an abnormal growth pattern at the endplates of the vertebrae during the growth spurts of adolescence.

On imaging studies, such as X-rays, affected vertebrae may exhibit a more pronounced anterior angle compared to the posterior angle, confirming the wedging and associated structural deformity. The presence of these specific findings is crucial for diagnosing Scheuermann's disease, as they distinguish it from other causes of back pain or postural abnormalities in adolescents. Anteroposterior flattening of the vertebral bodies, paravertebral soft tissue swelling, and degeneration of cervical discs are not characteristic findings for Scheuermann's disease, which further reinforces why the correct answer focuses on epiphyseal plate disturbance and anterior wedging.