Cervical Spinal Epidural Abscess Due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis without Osseous Involvement: A Case Report. Issue 3 (July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Esteves, Sofia; Catarino, Isabel; Robles, Diogo; Lopes, Daniel; Silva, Fernando; de Sousa, Carlos
• Is Part Of: JBJS case connector. Volume 6:Issue 3(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-07
• Subjects: Orthopedic surgery -- Case studies -- Periodicals; Orthopedic surgery -- Periodicals; Orthopedics; Orthopedic Procedures; Orthopedic surgery; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Case studies; Periodicals; 616.7
• DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.15.00287
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2160-3251

Abstract

Abstract : Case: We present a rare case of cervical spinal epidural abscess due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis without osseous involvement that was treated with decompression and arthrodesis in a 2-stage procedure. Conclusion: Spinal epidural abscess due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the least common of the various forms of spinal tuberculosis. This abscess represents a severe infection of the epidural space that can compromise neural elements and can require urgent surgical intervention to avoid permanent neurological deficits. Early diagnosis and early decompression remain the 2 most important predictors of a successful neurological outcome.