OrthoNeuroSpine & Pain Institute

ScoliScore Test is the first and only genetic test proven to give physicians and parents insight into the possible progression of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS), thereby reducing the uncertainty of AIS progression, and allowing for a more personalized treatment plan.

The ScoliScore Test analyzes 53 genetic markers correlated with spinal curve progression in AIS patients and has a 99% negative predictive value (NPV) in determining the risk of progression in a manner that is superior to all current clinical predictors. The test was developed in collaboration with over 110 clinicians worldwide and was designed through the analysis of over 10,000 patient samples. After this extensive development, the ScoliScore test was validated in three multi-center independent clinical trials.

• The ScoliScore Test assigns a numerical value (between 1 and 200) to the likelihood of curve progression based on a child’s DNA and current Cobb angle.
• The ScoliScore Test is a highly accurate prognostic test for AIS curve progression.
• 99% Negative Predictive Value (NPV) for the likelihood of AIS spinal curvature NOT progressing to >40º Cobb angle.
• 95% probability in the High Risk category (ScoliScore of 181-200) for the likelihood that the AIS spinal curvature WILL progress >40º Cobb angle.
• The ScoliScore Test is performed by collecting a saliva sample during a physician’s office visit. The sample is then sent to Transgenomic for analysis.
• Within four weeks of the laboratory receiving the sample, the ScoliScore Test result report will be sent to the ordering physician’s office.
• The ScoliScore Test assigns a numerical value (between 1 and 200) to the likelihood of curve progression based on the child’s DNA and current Cobb angle.
• The physician can then use this information, combined with other clinical factors, to determine a personalized treatment plan.

ScoliScore AIS Prognostic Test is a clinically validated and highly accurate genetic test used for risk prognostic information about severe curve progression in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis. These results are used to predict which patients are likely to progress to a severe scoliosis at the time of initial diagnosis. Understanding a patient’s risk of curve progression can alter treatment recommendations. The physicians at Virginia Spine Institute offer genetic testing as a part of a scoliosis evaluation if a child meets the genetic testing criteria.

ScoliScore is appropriate for children 9 to 13 years of age with a mild to moderate curve (10-25 degree Cobb angle) who are self-reported Caucasians. This is a simple test performed by collecting saliva in the office with a special kit that is sent for analysis. No blood draw is needed for this test. Within several weeks, the ScoliScore Test report is sent to our office and results are reviewed at a follow-up visit together. The test assigns a number from 1-200 which indicates the likelihood for curve progression. The assigned number is based upon the child’s DNA and their current Cobb angle from x-rays.

In developing the ScoliScore, researchers identified 28 DNA markers that are progressive genes, and 25 DNA markers that are protective genes. The presence of each and their ratio have been made into a validated algorithm to create a number unique to the child's individual genetic markers. The test was made after analyzing over 10,000 patient samples and then validated in three multi-center independent clinical trials. Most patients are expected to be in a low risk category with a score from 1-50. Low risk means there is greater than 99% probability that she or he will not experience progression to a severe curve (more than 40 degree Cobb angle). About one quarter of patients in the initial study had a score in the intermediate risk group (51-180) and only 1% in the high risk group (181-200). The high risk group had a greater than 95% probability of progressing to a severe curve. Results allow the family and clinician to have a clearer picture of the child’s future spinal health and design a personalized treatment plan. This may change how often the child is followed with x-rays and the decision to brace or proceed with surgery.

The ScoliScore Test is appropriate for:

• Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
• Between the ages of 9 years – skeletal maturity
• Self reported Caucasian males and females (North American, South American, European, Eastern European, Middle Eastern)
• Mild Curve (10° – 25° Cobb angle)