"Cupid's bow" contour of the lumbar vertebrae
Mazzilli, M.P.; Stabellini, R.; Caldeo, A.; Ghedini, M.; Bonari, R.L.; Scutellari, P.N.
La Radiologia Medica 71(10): 675-677
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0033-8362 PMID: 4089249 Document Number: 258159
The cortical margin of the inferior end plate of lumbar vertebral bodies, in the frontal projection, frequently simulates the curvature of a bow, aimed cephalad. On lateral view, the two concavities are superimposed and lie in the posterior portion of the vertebral body. The aspect, called "Cupid's bow" must be considered a normal anatomic variant and should not be confused with diseases affecting the spine. The incidence and degree of the finding are discussed.