Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026
11:32
Following in Real Time the Impact of Pneumococcal Virulence Factors in an Acute Mouse Pneumonia Model Using Bioluminescent Bacteria
Published on: February 23, 2014
14.6K
Spinal and paraspinal pneumococcal infections-a review.
D M Siddiq1, D M Musher, R O Darouiche
1Baylor College of Medicine and the Michael E. DeBakey Veteran Affairs Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd., Room 4B-370, Houston, TX, 77025, USA, danish.m.siddiq@gmail.com.
Summary
Spinal infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae are rare but serious. This study reviews 52 cases, finding lumbar spine involvement and localized back pain common, with surgical intervention not improving survival.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Spinal and paraspinal infections due to Streptococcus pneumoniae are infrequent occurrences.
- This study examines two institutional cases and reviews an additional 50 cases from existing literature.
- The analysis encompasses spinal epidural abscess, vertebral osteomyelitis, and paraspinal abscesses caused by pneumococcus.
Observation:
- The analysis included two institutional cases and a literature review of 50 additional cases.
- Common manifestations included persistent localized back pain and elevated inflammatory markers.
- The lumbar spine was the most frequently affected region.
Findings:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae was most often identified directly from the infection site, with blood cultures being less sensitive.
- Patients with neurological deficits, particularly those with spinal epidural abscess or phlegmon, exhibited higher mortality rates.
- A 6-week course of parenteral antimicrobials was the standard treatment.
Implications:
- Surgical intervention did not demonstrate a mortality benefit in the management of pneumococcal spinal infections.
- Understanding the clinical course and treatment outcomes is crucial for managing these rare but potentially severe infections.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:29Pneumonia I: Introduction
24
Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract that leads to inflammation of the lung parenchyma, often resulting in the accumulation of inflammatory exudate in the alveoli and airways. Unlike the watery, low-protein fluid exudate in pulmonary edema, the exudate in this case is a thick fluid rich in immune cells, proteins, and debris produced during infection and inflammation.This impairs gas exchange and can lead to consolidation of lung tissue. The infection may be caused by a...
24
01:30Pneumonia I: Introduction
1.5K
Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that targets the lungs, specifically the alveoli. These tiny air sacs, essential for oxygen exchange, become engorged with pus and fluid, severely hindering breathing, decreasing oxygen absorption, and causing significant pain and discomfort during respiration.
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
1.5K
01:30Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
1.4K
Pneumonia poses the potential for numerous complications that warrant consideration. These complications include the following:
1.4K
01:14Atypical Pneumonia
84
Atypical pneumonia, often caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, is a form of pulmonary infection that differs from the classical presentation of bacterial pneumonia in both its cause and clinical symptoms. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a pleomorphic bacterium notable for its lack of a rigid cell wall. This structural characteristic imparts resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics and significantly influences the bacterium’s behavior within the human host.Other pathogens responsible for the disease...
84
01:30Pneumonia V: Nursing management and Prevention
4.2K
Nursing management of pneumonia involves promoting airway patency, facilitating rest and conserving energy, encouraging fluid intake, maintaining nutrition, and educating patients.
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed....
The nurse must practice strict medical asepsis and adhere to infection control guidelines to minimize healthcare-associated infections.
Enhance airway patency
Position the patient correctly to facilitate drainage of the affected lung segments. Manual or mechanical percussion and vibration can also be employed....
4.2K
01:22Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
15
Bacterial meningitis is a severe, life-threatening inflammation of the meninges, particularly the pia mater and arachnoid mater, affecting the subarachnoid space, ventricles, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). If untreated, it can lead to significant neurological complications or death.Causative AgentsCommon pathogens vary with age and immune status. In adults, major organisms include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae. Streptococcus agalactiae (group B...
15