The changing concept of infantile scoliosis.

A description of infantile scoliosis is presented. It is thought to be provoked by persistent nursing of the infant during the first months of life in an oblique supine position. In addition deformities of the head, thorax, pelvis and contractures of the neck, hip and feet are often observed: the so-called "Seven-point syndrome". Following introduction of the prone-lying position as a prophylactic measure the incidence of infantile scoliosis has decreased considerably in Germany. The oblique positional scoliosis ("resolving") is probably a separate entity. It is not clear, however, whether it may occasionally become progressive or whether the progressive forms represent the lower end of the spectrum idiopathic adolescent, juvenile and infantile scoliosis.