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Spine infection/inflammation

Jeffrey DeSanto1, Jeffrey S Ross

  • 1Neuroradiology Department, Barrow Neurological Institute, St Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, 350 West Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA. jeffrey_desanto@yahoo.com

Radiologic Clinics of North America
|November 30, 2010
PubMed

Insights

This article reviews magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for spinal infections and inflammatory conditions. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of these often indistinguishable spinal lesions.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Spinal inflammatory and infectious lesions present diagnostic challenges.
  • Distinguishing between inflammatory and infectious causes is critical for treatment.
  • Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a key modality for evaluating these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To discuss the role of MR imaging in diagnosing spinal infections and inflammatory conditions.
  • To outline an anatomic approach for evaluating spinal lesions.
  • To review common infectious agents affecting the spine.

Main Methods:

  • Review of MR imaging findings in infectious and inflammatory spinal conditions.
  • Anatomic categorization of spinal compartments (external to internal).
  • Discussion of specific infectious pathogens.

Main Results:

  • Inflammatory and infectious spinal lesions can be difficult to differentiate on imaging and pathology.
  • MR imaging is essential for identifying and characterizing spinal pathology.
  • A systematic approach aids in diagnosis.

Conclusions:

  • Radiologists play a vital role in diagnosing treatable spinal infections.
  • Understanding MR imaging features is key to differentiating spinal conditions.
  • Comprehensive evaluation of the spine aids in identifying causative agents.

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