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Published on: June 23, 2020
Recent trends in spinal infections: retrospective analysis of patients treated during the past 50 years
Hideki Nagashima1, Koji Yamane, Takako Nishi
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, 36-1 Nishimachi, Yonago, Tottori, 683-8504, Japan. hidekin@med.tottori-u.ac.jp
Abstract:
We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of 210 consecutive patients treated for spinal infection in Tottori University Hospital in Japan between 1956 and 2005. Until 1995, spinal infection was under control in this series; however, during the last decade, it has been on the rise. Male predominance had been gradually progressing, and 69% of the patients were male during the last decade. Patients with spinal infection were aging, and the ratio of immunocompromised hosts dramatically increased to 53%. Until 1995, the percentage of patients with tuberculous spondylitis had been declining; however, the incidence has been on the rise during the last ten years. The organism was detected in 64% of patients treated between 1996 and 2005, of which Staphylococcus aureus was detected in 49%. Moreover, methicillin-resistant S. aureus was detected in 61% of patients with S. aureus. There were no immigrants or cases with human immunodeficiency virus in this series.
Insights
Spinal infections are increasing, with more males and older, immunocompromised patients affected. Tuberculous spondylitis and Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains, are rising causes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Spinal infections present a growing public health concern.
- Understanding trends in spinal infection epidemiology is crucial for effective management.
- Previous data suggested control, but recent trends indicate a resurgence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the changing trends in spinal infections over a 50-year period.
- To identify demographic shifts and etiological factors in spinal infections.
- To assess the incidence of specific pathogens, including drug-resistant bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 210 patient medical charts from Tottori University Hospital (1956-2005).
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical features, and causative organisms.
- Comparison of data from pre-1995 and post-1995 periods.
Main Results:
- Spinal infections increased in the last decade (1996-2005).
- Patient population shifted towards older, immunocompromised males (69% male).
- Tuberculous spondylitis incidence rose, alongside increased detection of Staphylococcus aureus (49%), including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (61% of S. aureus cases).
Conclusions:
- Spinal infections show an increasing trend, particularly in the last decade.
- Demographic shifts include an aging and immunocompromised patient population.
- Rising incidence of tuberculous spondylitis and S. aureus, notably MRSA, necessitates updated treatment strategies.
