[Spondylodiscitis in children: a case report]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric infectious diseases
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Diagnostic imaging in children

Background:

• Spondylodiscitis, an infection of the intervertebral disc and vertebral body, presents with non-specific symptoms requiring a high index of suspicion.
• Antibiotic therapy is the primary treatment for most spondylodiscitis cases, aiming for resolution through pharmacological management.

Observation:

• A 2-year-old child presented with a 3-month history of refusal to walk and pain, despite the absence of fever.
• Physical examination revealed lumbar tenderness, muscle contracture, and decreased lordosis, with no neurological deficits.
• Lumbosacral spine X-ray and pelvic MRI confirmed L5-S1 disc abnormalities and bone erosions consistent with spondylodiscitis.

Findings:

• Prompt diagnosis was achieved through imaging studies, identifying spondylodiscitis at the L5-S1 level.
• The patient received a comprehensive treatment plan including antibiotics, physical rehabilitation, and analgesia.
• Complete resolution of symptoms and condition was observed following the intervention.

Implications:

• Spondylodiscitis should be considered in pediatric cases presenting with acute changes in ambulation.
• Timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment are crucial for improving patient prognosis in pediatric spondylodiscitis.
• This case highlights the effectiveness of combined antibiotic therapy, rehabilitation, and analgesia in managing pediatric spinal infections.