[Intervertebral disk infection in children (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric infectious diseases
• Spinal infections
• Diagnostic imaging in children

Background:

• Discitis, an infection of the intervertebral disk, is difficult to diagnose in preschool-aged children.
• Early suspicion is often required for timely diagnosis.

Observation:

• Two pediatric cases (ages 2 and 4) presented with abdominal pain, mobility issues, and unusual sitting postures.
• Both cases involved the L4-L5 intervertebral disk.
• Initial laboratory tests, including bacteriology, were negative except for leucocytosis and elevated sedimentation rates.

Findings:

• Lumbar spine X-rays confirmed diagnoses in the third week of symptoms.
• Bone gammagraphy's value for early diagnosis is discussed.
• Favorable clinical outcomes were observed despite abnormal radiological findings.

Implications:

• Highlights the diagnostic challenges of pediatric discitis.
• Suggests bone gammagraphy as a potentially valuable tool for earlier detection.
• Emphasizes that clinical improvement can occur even with delayed radiological diagnosis.