Pyogenic infectious spondylitis in a patient with diabetes: case report

A case of pyogenic infectious spondylitis associated with diabetes was reported. The patient experienced focal back pain 2 weeks after amputation of her left foot due to diabetic gangrene. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine revealed decreased T1-weighted signals of Th11 and Th12 vertebral bodies and prevertebral masses, and these lesions were also detected as high signal intensities in T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. The images were consistent with a diagnosis of pyogenic infectious spondylitis and the patient responded to treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics. Percutaneous drainage of the abscesses was also needed. Early magnetic resonance imaging examination was particularly helpful in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of this rare disorder.