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Lumbar spondylolysis — MRCGP AKT MCQ

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ModerateSpineLumbar spondylolysisMRCGP AKT

A 16-year-old fast bowler has low back pain worse with extension and rotation. Neurological examination is normal, hamstrings are tight, and pain is reproduced by single-leg hyperextension. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Lumbar spondylolysis

Adolescent extension-rotation athletes are at risk of pars stress injury. Pain with extension loading and normal neurology supports spondylolysis. MRI is often used to identify early stress reaction without radiation exposure.

Reference: Brukner & Khan; BJSM