About Spinal Infection
The infection of discs between the spinal cord and the nearby bones is termed as the spinal cord infection. They mostly result from poor nutrition, weak immune system, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. They are caused by microorganisms and include several conditions such as spondylitis, discitis, spondylodiscitis, and epidural abscess.
The different types of spinal infections include:
- Vertebral osteomyelitis
- Discitis
- Spinal epidural abscess
- Spinal subdural empyema
- Meningitis
- Spinal cord abscess
CAUSES OR RISK FACTORS FOR SPINAL INFECTIONS
- Advanced age
- Intravenous drug use
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection
- Long-term systemic usage of steroids
- Diabetes mellitus
- Organ transplantation
- Malnutrition
- Cancer
SYMPTOMS OF SPINE INFECTIONS
The symptoms of spine infections include:
- Worsening pain and stiffness
- Decreased range of motion in the spine
- Neck stiffness
- Fever
- Chills
- Swelling or redness
- Night pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bowel and bladder incontinence
- Severe back pain with limited mobility
- Weakness, or tingling in the arms and legs
DIAGNOSIS OF SPINE INFECTIONS
Dr Abhinav Srivastava uses specialised testing such as X-rays, CT Scans, MRIs, Bone Scans, to confirm spine or disc infections. Also, he conducts blood tests to check the white blood cell count and a C-reactive protein test. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, he will determine the best treatment plan.
TREATMENT OF SPINE INFECTIONS
Firstly, you will be recommended non-surgical treatment options such as medications and others. The surgery may also be performed to clean the infection area and to stabilise the neurological impairment.