Pyogenic Spondylitis

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

refers to infections of the spine which involve the vertebrae, intervertebral disc, paraspinal soft tissue, or epidural space.

Its a broad term that includes:
– vertebral osteomyelitis
– vertebral spondylodiscitis
– vertebral epidural abscess

Question 2

Cause

Answer 2

Commonly arises from haematogenous spread of bacteria.

The arterial route spread is more common than the venous route, usually from the skin, respiratory tract, genitourinary tract, GI tract or the oral cavity, giving rise to bacterium.

Question 3

Symptoms

Answer 3

Due to the diagnosis usually being delayed this can lead to:
– bone destruction
– kyphosis
– subsequent neurological complications

Onset usually insidious
– neck and back pain usually the most common presenting complaint (90% of cases)

Other symptoms:
– nausea
– vomiting
– anorexia
– weight loss
– lethargy
– confusion
– dysphagia (may be caused by cervical pyogenic spondylitis)