31st January 2024

A 56-year-old lady attends the emergency department reporting worsening lower back pain over 6 weeks.

A 56-year-old lady attends the emergency department reporting worsening lower back pain over 6 weeks. She has been seen multiple times in the past for lower back pain over the past 2 years. Past medical history includes asthma, which she regularly has exacerbations of. She is an ex-smoker. Observations are normal. On examination, there is midline tenderness of the lower back; neurological exam is normal. 

Which of the following findings is the most likely diagnosis?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.