Melatonin and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: The present evidence

Abstract

Introduction: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a multifactorial condition with genetic predisposing factors, and several causes have been put forward for its aetiopathogenesis, including possible hormonal dysfunction. Melatonin seems to play significant role in AIS.

Methods: A systematic search in different database, to July 2021, was performed to define the role of melatonin in the pathophysiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Eight suitable studies were identified.

Results: The concentration and rhythm of melatonin secretion can play an important role by influencing the pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Conclusions: Although there are many alterations of melatonin in subjects with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, the many variables present do not allow to establish a direct cause-effect relationship.

Level of evidence: Level IV.

Keywords: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis; Hormonal imbalance; Melatonin; Spine deformity.