Spine Infections

Spine infections, also known as spinal osteomyelitis, spondylodiscitis, or epidural abscesses, are serious conditions caused by bacterial, fungal, or, rarely, tuberculous infections affecting the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, or spinal canal. Common pathogens include Staphylococcus aureus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (causing Pott’s disease), and Escherichia coli. These infections can result from direct trauma, postoperative complications, or hematogenous spread from distant infections. Patients may present with persistent back pain, fever, night sweats, weight loss, or neurological deficits in severe cases. Diagnosis is confirmed through MRI, blood tests (CRP, ESR, blood cultures), and biopsy. Treatment includes prolonged antibiotics or antifungal therapy, immobilization, and, in severe cases, surgical debridement or decompression to prevent neurological deterioration.

  • Causes: Bacterial (S. aureus), fungal, tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis), post-surgical infections, hematogenous spread.

  • Risk Factors: Diabetes, immunosuppression, IV drug use, recent spinal surgery, chronic infections.

  • Symptoms: Chronic back pain, fever, night sweats, weight loss, neurological deficits (if spinal cord compression occurs).

  • Diagnosis: MRI (gold standard), blood tests (CRP, ESR, blood cultures), CT-guided biopsy.

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