Intraspinal abscess (collection of pus)

About Intraspinal abscess (collection of pus)

A collection of pus and infectious material in the spine. The most common causes are spread of an infection in the blood, spread of infection from an adjacent infection or from an injury causing an inoculation of bacteria into the spine. This disorder can also occur after medical procedures or surgery involving the spine.

Symptoms

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

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging studies (such as CT scan or MRI of the spine) are performed to establish the diagnosis. Abscess fluid will be collected and cultured.

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

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment includes intravenous antibiotics, and/ surgery to drain the infection.

Medical specialties

Neurosurgery · Pediatric Neurosurgery

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