Spinal abscess (collection of pus)

About Spinal abscess (collection of pus)

A collection of infectious material adjacent to the spine. The most common causes are a complication of surgery, spread from an infection in the blood, infection spread from a nearby infection, or from an injury that penetrates the back allowing bacteria to enter. This is a rare disorder but is more common in intravenous drug users and patients with a weakened immune system.

Symptoms

Back or neck pain, weakness, numbness, fever, skin redness.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Other tests will be done to establish the diagnosis. A MRI is the most useful test to identify this disorder.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, MRI.

Conventional treatment summary

Intravenous antibiotics, Surgery to drain the infection may be necessary.

Medical specialties

Neurosurgery · Pediatric Neurosurgery

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Spinal abscess (collection of pus).