discitis Flashcards
1
Q
what is discitis?
A
infection in intervertebral disc space
2
Q
what are complications of discitis?
A
sepsis
epidural abscess
3
Q
what are features of disciits?
A
Back pain
General features
- pyrexia,
- rigors
- sepsis
Neurological features
e.g. changing lower limb neurology
if an epidural abscess develops
4
Q
what are causes of discitis?
A
bacterial
- staphylococcus aureus is most common
-usually due to haematogenous seeding of vertebrae (bacteraemia)
viral
TB
aseptic
5
Q
how is discitis diagnosed?
A
MRI has highest sensitivity
CT-guided biopsy may be needed to guide antimicrobial treatment
6
Q
what is the treatment of discitis?
A
6-8 weeks of IV abx
assess for endocarditis with TTE/TOE
7
Q
A
