An Uncommon Case of Brucellar Spondylodiscitis: A Case Report

Infective spondylodiscitis refers to simultaneous inflammation of vertebrae and disc and usually occurs through hematogenous spread. The most common presentation of brucellosis is febrile illness, but it can rarely present as spondylodiscitis. Rarely, human cases of brucellosis are diagnosed and treated clinically. We describe a case of previously healthy man in his early 70s who presented with symptoms suggestive of spinal tuberculosis, then diagnosed to have brucellarspondylodiscitis.

A 72-year-old farmer presented to our orthopedic department with a history of chronic lower back pain. Spinal tuberculosis was suspected at a medical facilitynear his residence, based on magnetic resonance imaging consistent with infective spondylodiscitis, and the patient was referred to our hospital for further management. Investigations revealed that the patient had an uncommon diagnosis of Brucellar spondylodiscitis for which he was managed accordingly.

Brucellar spondylodiscitis may clinically mimic spinal tuberculosis; hence, it must be considered as a differential diagnosis in a patient presenting with the lower back pain (particularly in the elderly) and signs of a chronic infection. Screening serological testing is vital in early identification and management of spinal brucellosis.