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Updated: May 21, 2026
06:23
Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Human Brucellar Spondylodiscitis
Published on: May 23, 2021
Imaging of spondylodiscitis
A Leone1, C Dell'Atti, N Magarelli
1Department of Bioimaging and Radiological Sciences, School of Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy. a.leonemd@tiscali.it
Summary
Spinal infections are rising, especially in high-risk groups. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging aids early diagnosis and treatment, preventing severe complications like bone destruction and neurological damage.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Spine Surgery
Background:
- Spinal infections, both pyogenic and non-pyogenic, are increasingly prevalent.
- These infections are a significant cause of morbidity in high-risk populations, including the elderly, immunocompromised, diabetics, drug addicts, and those with sickle-cell disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the radiological characteristics of spinal infections.
- To emphasize the role of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in diagnosing spinal infections.
- To discuss the differential diagnosis of spinal infections.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of spine imaging from 118 patients diagnosed with spinal infections.
- All patients underwent radiography and MR imaging.
- Computed tomography (CT) was utilized in 96 patients for further evaluation.
Main Results:
- Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging has significantly improved the speed and accuracy of diagnosing spinal infections.
- Timely diagnosis facilitated by MR imaging allows for prompt and appropriate treatment initiation.
Conclusions:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of spinal infections is crucial.
- Prompt treatment is essential to avert severe bone and joint destruction.
- Effective management can prevent debilitating neurologic sequelae.
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