MRI-Based Morphometric Analysis of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Changes Across Age and Sex in a Bangladeshi Population

Background: The intervertebral disc is important in the normal functioning of the spine. It is a cushion of fibrocartilage and the principal joint between two vertebrae in the spinal column. This study aimed to establish baseline values for lumbar disc dimensions across different age groups and sexes, using MRI in a tertiary level hospital in southeastern part of Bangladesh, hoping to aid in the diagnosis and management of lumbar spine disorders. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study, accomplished in a tertiary care facility in Chattogram, Bangladesh evaluated 50 males and 50 females of 3rd to 7th decade. The lumbar intervertebral disc height and length at different levels (L1-L5) were measured. ANOVA test was run and p <0.05 was considered significant (At 95% level of confidence). Post hoc (Bonferroni) test was also done for significant ANOVA findings. Results: Respondents’ age fluctuated from 30-79 years. Males commonly exhibited higher anterior, middle and posterior intervertebral disc heights than females across most lumbar levels. Males tend to have higher Superior Length (SL) and Inferior Length (IL) values than females across all levels and age groups. Both sexes revealed increasing SL and IL values with advancing age. In both sexes, there is a progressive increase in anterior disc wedging from L1–L2 to L5–S1 being more consistent in males and slightly variable in females, especially in older age groups. Conclusion: The findings suggest a morphometric pattern of lumbar intervertebral disc for the Bangladeshi population and could aid in early detection of degenerative changes and improve patient-specific management. IAHS Medical Journal Vol 9(1), June 2026; 20-25