Kümmell disease

A linear or oval radiolucency in the intervertebral disc space that corresponds to gas, a typical finding of osteonecrosis. The sign is specific for local bone ischemia associated with a non-healing vertebral collapse and pseudarthrosis
DiffDx Vertebral osteomyelitis, Schmorl’s nodes, spondylosis deformans, necrotic vertebral collapse

Kümmell disease

, Kümmell spondylitis (kim′ĕl) [Hermann Kümmell, Ger. surgeon, 1852–1937] Spondylitis following compression fracture of the vertebrae.