Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

In Vivo Mouse Model of Spinal Implant Infection
Published on: June 23, 2020
Unusual case of staphylococcus epidermidis-induced spinal epidural abscess in an adolescent: Clinical insights and
Saja Karaja1, Ayham Qatza1, Mulham Alkassem1
1Faculty of Medicine, Hama University, Hama, Syria.
Abstract:
Spinal epidural abscess (SEA) is an uncommon infection typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus, predominantly affecting older adults with risk factors such as advanced age, comorbidities, and prior surgical interventions. This report details a case involving a 14-year-old male presenting with acute lumbar pain, lower limb weakness, urinary retention, and skin pustules. The patient had no history of immunologic diseases, diabetes, or drug use. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with gadolinium demonstrated a peripheral fluid signal surrounding the thoracic spinal cord, consistent with an epidural abscess from T9-T12 to L1, causing spinal cord compression. Cultures from the abscess and skin pustules identified Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis). The patient underwent surgical drainage and remained stable postoperatively. This case highlights an unusual SEA presentation in an adolescent without typical risk factors, emphasizing the importance of considering atypical pathogens and further investigation into infection sources.
Related Concept Videos
Local Anesthetics: Clinical Application as Epidural Anesthesia
Since epidural anesthetics can be infused through an epidural catheter, all types of drugs, including short-acting ones, can be administered. Chloroprocaine and lidocaine are examples of short and long-duration anesthetics, respectively. Bupivacaine...
Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Staphylococcal Skin Infections
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Brain Abscess l: Introduction
