Spinal Infection

Question 1

What does spinal infection include?

Answer 1

• Discitis
• Epidural abscess
• Septic facet joints
• Spondylitis
• TB

Question 2

How do patients with spinal infection usually present?

Answer 2

• Severe, unremitting, non-mechanical spinal pain (but symptoms can take several weeks or months to become severe)
• Fever is common but not always present

Question 3

What are some risk factors for spinal infection?

Answer 3

• HIV
• Recent surgery
• Malignancy
• Diabetes

Question 4

What are signs & symptoms (S&S) to look out for spinal infections (Vertebral osteomyelitis, Discitis, Epidural abscess)?

Answer 4

• Fever; systemically unwell.
• Recent infection.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• History of intravenous drug use.
• HIV infection (use of immunosuppressant drugs, or other cause of immunocompromise)

Question 5

What are red flag questions for a patient who has history of spinal infection?

Answer 5

• Have you had a recent infection or operation, especially one that involved the spine?
• Do you have a fever along with back pain?