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Hematogenous spinal infection in central Greece

Lazaros I Sakkas1, Evangelos M Davas, Efie Kapsalaki

  • 1From the Departments of Internal Medicine/Rheumatology, Thessaly University School of Medicine, Larisa, Greece. lsakkas@med.uth.gr

Spine
|July 1, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Spinal infections (SpI) in Central Greece were studied, finding pyogenic bacteria and Brucella are common causes. Early recognition of symptoms like fever and pain is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of SpI.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Spinal infection (SpI) commonly affects intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies, potentially leading to neurological deficits.
  • Understanding the epidemiology and clinical presentation of SpI is essential for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presentation, etiology, and outcomes of spinal infections in Central Greece.
  • To identify common causative agents and risk factors associated with SpI in the region.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 33 patients hospitalized with SpI between 2000 and 2007 at a teaching hospital in Central Greece.
  • All patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine for diagnosis and characterization of infection.

Main Results:

  • Pyogenic SpI accounted for 57.6% of cases, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most frequent pathogen. Granulomatous SpI was observed in 34.4% of patients, primarily caused by Brucella spp.
  • Spondylodiscitis (SpD) was the most common localization. Epidural extension occurred in a significant proportion of pyogenic and brucellar SpD cases.
  • Diabetes mellitus was the most frequent comorbidity. While most patients were treated medically, two succumbed to sepsis.

Conclusions:

  • Physicians should consider spinal infection in patients presenting with back pain, fever, constitutional symptoms, or elevated inflammatory markers.
  • In endemic areas, Brucella should be strongly considered as a cause of spinal infection, necessitating specific diagnostic and treatment approaches.

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