Melatonin and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The present evidence

Introduction: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a multifactorial condition with genetic predisposing factors, and several causes have been put forward for its aetiopathogenesis, including possible hormonal dysfunction. Melatonin seems to play significant role in AIS. Methods: A systematic search in different database, to July 2021, was performed to define the role of melatonin in the pathophysiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Eight suitable studies were identified. Results: The concentration and rhythm of melatonin secretion can play an important role by influencing the pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Conclusions: Although there are many alterations of melatonin in subjects with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, the many variables present do not allow to establish a direct cause-effect relationship. Level of evidence: Level IV.