SPINAL INFECTIONS

Doctors state that spinal infections occur because of either a bacterial or a fungal infection in another part of the body that spreads to the spine through the bloodstream. The most common source of spinal infections is a bacterium called staphylococcus aureus, followed by Escherichia coli.

Schedule an Appointment

3 percent of individuals with progressive curvature may eventually experience severe problems that can include scoliosis and back pain, spinal problems, and nerve compression causing numbness, weakness, and leg pain.

Spinal Infections

Doctors refer to an infection in the area between the bones of the spine or on the outer covering of the spinal cord as a spinal epidural abscess. Although uncommon, if left untreated, a spinal epidural abscess can kill a person. Early diagnosis and treatment are associated with the best prognosis and the lowest risk of complications. Also, spinal epidural abscesses are most commonly found in the thoracic or lumbar regions. Furthermore, an underlying infection accompanies the abscess. Now, the underlying infection may stem from a distant or contiguous area of the body.

In roughly one-third of cases, the cause remains unknown. On the other hand, staphylococcus aureus occurs more than any other, followed by Escherichia coli and mixed anaerobes. A tuberculous abscess of the thoracic spine can occasionally occur, while bacteremia can occur as a result of medical instrumentation, a dental procedure, or IV drug use. A similar abscess can occur in the subdural space on rare occasions.

Spinal Infections, also known as vertebral infections and spinal osteomyelitis, are infections that occur within the vertebrae, and the bones of the spine. Bacteria, fungi, or even viruses can cause these infections. The most common symptoms include localized pain in the back that worsens with movement, tenderness to the touch, and potentially fever and chills. In severe cases, the infection can spread and compress the spinal cord, leading to neurological problems like weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking. Early diagnosis through imaging tests like MRI is crucial to identify the source of the infection and initiate prompt treatment with antibiotics or antifungal medications. Left untreated, vertebral infections can cause serious complications, including bone damage, spinal instability, and permanent nerve damage.

Epidural Abscess Defined

An epidural abscess refers to an infection that develops in the space between your skull bones and the lining of your brain. It frequently forms in the space between your spine’s bones and the lining membrane of your spinal cord. Also, an epidural abscess causes a pocket of pus to form and cause swelling.

It can put pressure on your bones as well as the membranes that protect your spinal cord and brain. For instance, this swelling, as well as the underlying infection, can interfere with sensations and physical movement, as well as cause other issues. Doctors should treat an epidural abscess as soon as possible. A Staphylococcus aureus bacterial infection normally causes an epidural abscess. Additionally, it could also originate via a fungus or another germ circulating the body. Often, doctors cannot determine the exact cause of an infection.

Questions and Answers

What are the common causes of Spinal Infections?

Spinal infections, also known as vertebral osteomyelitis or discitis, are usually caused by bacteria that enter the spine through the bloodstream. Infections can also result from surgical procedures or direct trauma to the spine. Common bacteria responsible for spinal infections include Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus species.

What are the symptoms of a Spinal Infection?

Symptoms of a spinal infection can vary, but they often include persistent back pain that may worsen at night, fever, chills, fatigue, and localized tenderness over the affected area. In more severe cases, neurological symptoms like weakness, numbness, or difficulty controlling bowel and bladder function may occur. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

Severe Pain: Pain that limits daily activities or disrupts your sleep is a strong indicator that you need urgent evaluation.
Neurological Deficits: Weakness or numbness in your limbs should not be ignored, as they can indicate a serious condition.
Bowel or Bladder Dysfunction: Difficulty controlling these functions requires prompt medical assessment.
Unexplained Fever: A fever paired with back pain could signify an infection that needs immediate attention.
Recent History of Infection or Surgery: If you’ve had a recent infection or surgical procedure near the spine, be vigilant for symptoms.
Compromised Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems should be particularly cautious, as they are more susceptible to infections.

This combination of symptoms and circumstances highlights the importance of timely medical intervention to prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.

How are Spinal Infections Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical assessment, medical history review, blood tests, and advanced imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans. These tests help identify the location and extent of the infection. Treatment typically includes a combination of antibiotics, rest, and pain management. Antibiotics are crucial for treating spinal infections caused by bacteria. However, they won’t work on viral or fungal infections, which require different approaches. Viral spinal infections are treated with antiviral medications, while infections caused by fungi are managed with antifungal medications.

Severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics to ensure effective treatment. In some instances, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain any abscesses or remove infected tissue. By tailoring the treatment to the type of infection, healthcare providers can effectively address the specific cause, ensuring a more targeted and efficient recovery process.

Types of Spinal Infections and their Characteristics

Spinal infections can be categorized into three main types: bacterial, fungal, and viral, each with unique characteristics and implications for treatment.

Bacterial Spinal Infections: These are the most common type, typically caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus and E-coli. The infection often enters the spine through the bloodstream or direct contamination during surgery. Bacterial infections can manifest as:

Discitis: Inflammation of the discs between the vertebrae.
Vertebral Osteomyelitis: Infection in the spinal bones.
Epidural Abscess: A collection of pus in the epidural space.

Fungal Spinal Infections: Although less common, fungal infections can occur, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or those who have undergone invasive procedures. Fungi like Candida or Aspergillus can invade the spine, causing conditions like fungal discitis or vertebral osteomyelitis.

Viral Spinal Infections: These are rare but can pose significant health risks. Viruses such as the herpes simplex virus (HSV) or varicella-zoster virus (VZV) can lead to conditions affecting the nerves around the spine, such as meningitis or radiculitis. Additionally, there are inflammatory conditions that mimic the symptoms of spinal infections but do not involve an actual infection, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing these distinctions is essential for effective management and prevention of complications.

Understanding Spinal Infections: Severity and Treatment

Spinal infections, while not exceedingly common, pose significant health risks if not promptly and effectively managed. These infections occur when bacteria or fungi make their way into the spinal area, potentially affecting the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, or the spinal cord itself.

How Severe Are Spinal Infections?

The severity of spinal infections can vary, but they are universally regarded as serious medical conditions. If an infection in the spine is left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain, nerve damage, and in severe cases, paralysis. The potential for these dire consequences makes early detection and treatment crucial.

Effective Management of Spinal Infections

Fortunately, when identified early, spinal infections can often be managed successfully. Treatment typically involves:

Antibiotics: These are administered to combat the infection.
Bed Rest: Reducing physical activity to minimize further aggravation of the condition.
Spinal Braces: These devices help to stabilize the spine and prevent movement that could worsen the infection.

In summary, while spinal infections are serious, the outcomes can be significantly improved with prompt and effective treatment. Early medical intervention is key to managing the condition before it progresses to more severe complications.

What can Cause a Spinal Epidural Abscess?

Spinal Epidural Causes

Bacteria typically cause spinal epidural abscesses. In this case, Staphylococcus aureus appears as the most prevalent organism, followed by Escherichia coli. Additionally, a fungal infection can cause an abscess in some cases. The following circumstances increase the likelihood of developing a spinal epidural abscess:

Previous back surgery or an invasive spine procedure.
Infections of the circulatory system
Cervical osteomyelitis (bone infection of the spine).
Use of intravenous drugs
Consistent sinusitis
Chronic ear infections.
Recent brain surgery
A brain injury
A boil (a pus-filled bump beneath the skin caused by an infected hair follicle), most commonly on the back or scalp.
Spine-related bone infections (vertebral osteomyelitis).
Spinal cord injury.

However, when considering the broader spectrum of spinal infections, it’s important to recognize additional risk factors that can make individuals more susceptible. Understanding these can help in early detection and prevention:

Compromised Immune System: Conditions that weaken the immune defenses, such as autoimmune diseases or long-term use of steroids, heighten the risk of spinal infections.
Chronic Health Conditions: Diseases like diabetes, cancer, and HIV/AIDS can increase vulnerability due to their impact on overall health and immunity.
Lifestyle Factors: Intravenous drug use introduces potential pathogens directly into the bloodstream, significantly raising the chances of infection.
Medical History: Those who have undergone organ transplants or have a history of invasive surgeries are at a higher risk due to potential exposure and weakened immune systems.

By recognizing these diverse factors, individuals and healthcare providers can better monitor and manage potential risks associated with spinal infections, ensuring timely intervention and treatment.

Symptoms and Signs of a Spinal Epidural Abscess

The signs and symptoms of an epidural abscess vary according to the location of the abscess and may include:

Disruption of consciousness.
Problems with coordination and movement.
Unusual sensations all over the body.
Difficulty walking.
Increased muscle weakness in both the legs and the arms.
Inability to regulate bladder or bowel motions.
Nausea or the sensation of vomiting.

Diagnosis of Spinal Infections

Because prompt treatment will avoid or minimize neurologic deficits, clinicians should consider spinal epidural abscess if patients have significant atraumatic back pain, especially if a tenderness exists over the spine, or if they have a fever or have recently had an infection or dental procedure. Characteristic neurologic deficits are more specific but may appear later, so delaying imaging until these neurologic deficits are present may increase the likelihood of a poor outcome. If a person has symptoms of an epidural abscess, the doctor may order magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Therefore, an MRI provides detailed images of organs and structures within the body using a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer.

The doctor will draw blood to perform a complete blood count (CBC) to determine if an infection exists. The amount of white blood cells increases during an infection. This occurs because white blood cells attack and destroy the organisms that cause the infection. In this case, blood cultures can identify the organism (bacteria or fungus) that produces the infection.

Imaging Tools

Imaging studies will determine the exact location and extent of a lesion. The specific imaging techniques used vary slightly depending on the location of the infection.

Treatment of Spinal Infections

Surgery and antibiotics or antifungals are commonly used to treat spinal epidural abscesses. In some cases, treatment may consist solely of antibiotics. Thus, antibiotics are typically administered for 4-6 weeks. If the abscess puts pressure on the spinal cord, the surgeon will perform surgical spinal cord decompression to reduce/remove the pressure. Moreover, the surgeon may perform a laminectomy to remove the lamina, a bone that covers the spinal canal, to decompress the spinal cord. Also, the removal of the lamina makes room for the spinal cord and allows it to function properly. In most cases, Doctors recommend a laminectomy for complicated infections.

If the abscess causes neurological symptoms like bladder/bowel dysfunction, via the cauda equina syndrome, the surgeon will immediately drain the abscess. After draining the abscess, the surgeon will order a culture to ensure that the medications prescribed are effective against the specific organism causing the infection. In cases where neural structures are compressed, immediate surgical decompression and drainage are required. As such, doctors will collect the abscess fluid for culture and diagnostic purposes. If left untreated, serious complications such as the following can occur:

Infection within the skull or spine bones.
Meningococcal meningitis (infection of the meninges).
A spinal cord abscess
Chronic back pain.
Permanent nervous system or brain damage, including paralysis
Untreated spinal epidural abscesses

Antimicrobial Therapy

Doctors recommend bed rest and parenteral antimicrobials to treat spinal epidural abscesses that do not compromise neurological function. However, due to the risk of progressive neurological dysfunction despite antimicrobial therapy, as well as the link between improved outcome and preoperative neurologic function, doctors will closely monitor the patient. In addition, surgical intervention should occur at the first sign of deterioration. Medical management will occur in patients who possess neurological symptoms; patients who may experience complications during surgery; patients who possess complete paresis for more than 48-72 hours, or patients who experience extensive infections involving many vertebral levels of the neural axis.

When a significant surgery gets delayed and significant neurologic dysfunction occurs, or the patient becomes septic or critically ill, doctors mormally begin antimicrobials. Experience evidence based facts reveal that empiric antimicrobial therapy should begin as soon as cultures are obtained and should cover both Gram-positive cocci and Gram-negative bacilli especially in patients with distant Gram-negative infection or bacteremia.

There are no evidence-based recommendations for the duration of parenteral antimicrobials for spinal epidural abscesses that do not compress epidural regions. However, clinical efficacy usually suggests a course of 6 to 8 weeks of parenteral antimicrobials. Although some specialists will prescribe oral antimicrobials for an additional 1 to 2 months, close monitoring will occur.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Long-term intravenous antibiotic or antifungal therapy becomes necessary for spinal epidural abscesses, which can result in the patient being hospitalized for an extended period. In addition, immobilization may occur when there is significant pain or the possibility of spine instability exists. Once the organism causing the infection has been identified, antibiotic treatment should begin if the patient is neurologically and structurally stable. As such, doctors will prescribe antimicrobial therapy to patients for at least six to eight weeks. In the end, doctors will prescribe Individual medication based on the patient’s unique circumstances, including age.

Surgical Treatment of Spinal Infections

Finally, doctors should implement nonsurgical treatments first; however, if any of the following conditions exist, doctors will suggest surgery:

Significant bone destruction, which causes spinal instability.
Deficits in neurology.
Sepsis with clinical toxicity caused by an antibiotic-resistant abscess.
The needle biopsy was unable to obtain the required cultures.
Intravenous antibiotics cannot eradicate the infection.

The primary goals of surgery:

Remove infected tissue (clean and remove it).
Allow sufficient blood flow to infected tissue to aid in healing.
Restore spinal stability by instrumenting the unstable spine.
Restore function or lessen neurological impairment.

When surgery becomes necessary, imaging tools such as plain X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs can help further pinpoint the area where surgery will benefit the patient.

Preventing Spinal Infections

Preventing spinal infections is an important aspect of patient care, particularly in surgical procedures involving the spine. Here are three common measures that our doctors at the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute implement to prevent spinal infections:

Antibiotic Prophylaxis: Before spinal surgery, doctors may administer antibiotic prophylaxis to reduce the risk of infection. This involves the administration of antibiotics before, during, and after the surgical procedure to help prevent the growth of bacteria and minimize the likelihood of infection. The specific antibiotics used and the duration of treatment may vary depending on the patient’s health status, the type of surgery, and the presence of any risk factors.
Sterile Surgical Techniques: Surgeons follow strict sterile techniques during spinal surgeries to minimize the introduction of bacteria into the surgical site. This includes thorough hand hygiene, wearing sterile gloves and gowns, and using sterile instruments and equipment. The operating room environment is also maintained under controlled conditions to minimize the presence of bacteria.
Wound Care and Monitoring: Proper wound care and monitoring are crucial in preventing infections. Surgeons and healthcare providers ensure that surgical incisions are closed properly and sterile dressings are applied. They also monitor the incision site for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge. Post-operative follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess the healing process and address any concerns promptly.

Patient Instructions

In addition to these measures, patients are often educated about proper hygiene and wound care instructions to follow after surgery. This may include instructions on keeping the surgical site clean, changing dressings as needed, and avoiding activities that could increase the risk of contamination or infection.

It’s important to note that while these preventive measures significantly reduce the risk of spinal infections, they may not eliminate them. If any signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, or fever, develop following spinal surgery, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention for proper evaluation and treatment.

Why Choose the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute?

The following are just a few of the many reasons why patients might choose us.

Expertise in the spine: The team of specialists at Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute is comprised of spine experts. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of spinal conditions, ensuring the best possible care for their patients.
Cutting-edge technology: Our practice uses the latest technology and techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. In addition, we use minimally invasive procedures that reduce pain and promote faster recovery.
Comprehensive care: Our practice offers a full range of services, from diagnostic imaging and physical therapy to surgery. We ensure that patients receive complete, seamless care for their spinal conditions.
Dedicated facilities: Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute is dedicated to providing patients with a safe and comfortable environment.

Finally, surgeries to correct idiopathic scoliosis are complex and multi-step procedures. Our Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute surgeons, with offices in Dallas, Plano, and Frisco, Texas, are specially trained and have years of experience performing these types of spine surgeries. We have seen over 100,000 patients and have performed over 16,000 operations. If you or your loved one is experiencing back pain, we strongly urge you to call us for an appointment, and we will see you in less than 24 hours.

___________________

Footnote

WebMD: What to know about Spinal Infections

We’re here to help STOP THE PAIN
If you are an adult living with scoliosis or have a child with this condition and need a doctor who specializes in orthopedic surgery,
call the Southwest Scoliosis and Spine Institute at 214-556-0555 to make an appointment today.