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Aseptic spondylodiskitis in rheumatic diseases.
1Rheumatology Section, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Barcelona, Spain.
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|January 17, 2002
Summary
Aseptic discitis, a spinal complication of rheumatic diseases, mimics infectious discitis. Recognizing its inflammatory vertebral pain and characteristic radiographic findings is crucial for accurate diagnosis when infection is ruled out.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Spinal Imaging
- Infectious Disease Mimicry
Background:
- Aseptic discitis is a known complication of various rheumatic diseases affecting the spine.
- It can present symptoms similar to infectious discitis, necessitating careful differentiation.
- Rheumatic spinal conditions can lead to aseptic discitis, presenting diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of recognizing aseptic discitis.
- To differentiate aseptic discitis from infectious discitis.
- To review the clinical and radiological features of aseptic discitis.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of MEDLINE (1986-2000) and PUBMED (1966-2000).
- Analysis of articles using keywords: aseptic discitis, spondylodiskitis, pseudodiskitis, pseudoarthrosis.
- Review of clinical and radiological characteristics.
Main Results:
- Aseptic discitis presents with inflammatory vertebral pain, potential fever, and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate.
- Radiological signs include decreased articular space and vertebral plate irregularity.
- It is crucial to consider aseptic discitis when infectious causes are excluded.
Conclusions:
- Aseptic discitis is an important differential diagnosis for suspected infectious discitis.
- Clinical and radiological findings aid in distinguishing it from infectious etiologies.
- Consideration of aseptic discitis is vital when infectious workup is negative.