Spinal infections are serious conditions that involve the vertebrae (osteomyelitis), intervertebral discs (discitis), spinal canal (epidural abscess), or surrounding soft tissues. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent permanent neurological damage.
Tuberculosis of the spine, also known as Pott’s disease, is a serious infection where the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria infect the vertebrae and intervertebral discs. It’s the most common form of skeletal TB and primarily affects the thoracic and lumbar spine.
The infection typically spreads from the lungs to the spine through the bloodstream and slowly destroys bone and soft tissue, potentially leading to deformity, nerve damage, or paralysis. It’s a serious condition that can lead to spinal deformity, nerve compression, and paralysis if not diagnosed and treated early.
Common Types of Spinal Infections
- Vertebral Osteomyelitis – Infection in the bone of the vertebra
- Discitis – Infection of the intervertebral disc space
- Spinal Epidural Abscess – Pus accumulation in the epidural space, compressing the spinal cord
- Paraspinal Abscess – Infections in the muscles or soft tissue around the spine
- Postoperative Infections – Occurs after spine surgery, often within 30 days
Type of Spinal Infections
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- Bacterial Infections – Staphylococcus aureus is most common
- Fungal Infections – Seen in immunocompromised patients (e.g., candidiasis, aspergillosis)
- Tuberculosis (Pott’s disease) – A chronic infection causing spinal collapse
Symptoms
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- Persistent back or neck pain
- Fever and chills
- Neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness)
- Difficulty walking or loss of bladder/bowel control
- Elevated white blood cell count or ESR/CRP in blood tests
Diagnosis
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- MRI with contrast – Gold standard for detecting infection and abscesses
- Blood cultures – Identify causative organism
- CT-guided biopsy – Confirms diagnosis if blood cultures are negative
- X-rays or CT scans – Detect structural damage
Recovery and Prognosis
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- Most cases respond well if diagnosed early
- Delay in treatment increases risk of permanent damage
- Ongoing imaging and lab tests to monitor response
