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Adolescent scoliosis — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModeratePediatrics (well-child, chronic management)Adolescent scoliosisUSMLE Step 3

A 13-year-old girl has asymmetry on the Adam forward bend test at a sports physical. She is 3 months postmenarchal and has grown 7 cm in the past year. A standing spine radiograph shows a 28-degree right thoracic curve. She has no back pain or neurologic deficits. Which of the following is the most appropriate at this time?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Refer for bracing evaluation

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with moderate curve magnitude and growth remaining is commonly managed with bracing to reduce progression risk.

Reference: Scoliosis Research Society guidance