Related Experiment Videos
Cervical epidural abscess after epidural steroid injection.
Russel C Huang1, Gary S Shapiro, Moe Lim
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA. huangr@hss.edu
Spine
|December 31, 2003
Summary
A rare cervical epidural abscess occurred after a steroid injection, causing neurological deficits. Prompt diagnosis and surgical treatment led to full recovery of neurological function and pain.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Cervical epidural steroid injections are frequently used for cervical spine disease.
- Serious complications are rare, with only one prior reported case of cervical epidural abscess.
- This case report addresses a rare complication of cervical epidural steroid injection.
Observation:
- A patient presented with neurological deficits following a cervical epidural steroid injection.
- The patient was diagnosed with a cervical epidural abscess.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention, including decompressive laminectomy, irrigation, and debridement, resulted in partial neurologic recovery within 24 hours.
- Identification of the causative organism allowed for targeted antibiotic therapy.
- At 7-month follow-up, the patient experienced no recurrence of infection and regained baseline neurologic function and pain status.
Implications:
- Cervical epidural abscess is a rare but severe complication of epidural steroid injections.
- Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for favorable clinical outcomes.
- Neurological compromise can occur, highlighting the importance of vigilant monitoring and timely intervention.