Spinal Epidural Abscess Flashcards
1
Q
What is an abscess?
A
A collection of pus encapsulated by a pyogenic membrane.
2
Q
What is a spinal epidural abscess?
A
Collection of pus that is superficial to the dura mater (of the meninges) that cover the spinal cord
3
Q
Why is a spinal epidural abscess an emergency?
A
Need to avoid progressive SC damage
4
Q
How does a spinal epidural abscess present?
A
- Fever
- Back pain
- Focal neurological deficit according to segment affected
5
Q
What are possible causes of spinal epidural abscess?
A
- Haematogenous spread from IVDU
- Direct infection-spinal surgery
- Acquired immune disorder- HIV diabetes and alcohol
- Other: Diabetes, Endocarditis
6
Q
How is spinal epidural abscess diagnosed?
A
MRI spine
7
Q
What is always elevated which indicates a spinal epidural abscess?
A
ESR/CRP
8
Q
What is the management of a spinal epidural abscess?
A
IV antibiotics
9
Q
What would be the management if there was neurological deficit?
A
Spinal decompression
