Spinal epidural abscess following glossectomy and neck dissection: A case report
Esther Cheng1, Eric Thorpe1, Richard Borrowdale1
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, United States.
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
|January 23, 2016
Summary
A rare lumbar spinal epidural abscess occurred in a diabetic patient after head and neck surgery. Early recognition and intervention are crucial for recovery from this potentially life-threatening condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Oncology
Background:
- Spinal epidural abscess (SEA) is a rare but serious complication.
- Post-otolaryngology procedure SEAs are uncommon, typically involving the cervical space.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of lumbar SEA following head and neck oncologic surgery.
- To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a diabetic patient presenting with lumbar SEA.
- Diagnostic imaging (MRI) and microbiological cultures (blood, urine, abscess, surgical site).
- Treatment involved surgical decompression, drainage, IV antibiotics, and physical therapy.
Main Results:
- Lumbar SEA confirmed at L4 via MRI.
- Klebsiella pneumoniae identified as the causative pathogen from multiple sites.
- Patient regained neurologic function with comprehensive treatment.
Conclusions:
- Lumbar SEA is an unprecedented complication after head and neck oncologic surgery.
- Klebsiella pneumoniae is an unusual pathogen in this context.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are vital for favorable neurological outcomes.
