Nontuberculous infection of the spine

Fourteen cases of nontuberculous infection of the spine were presented, and compared with similar published series (172 cases). The ESR was very high in all cases except one. It returned to normal after recovery. The long delay (5-28 weeks) in diagnosis emphasizes the need for increased awareness of the condition, and the importance of repeated investigations, if these are initially normal. If diagnosed and treated in time the disease runs a relatively benign course. Open exploration is not necessary in all cases, and whether this speeds recovery is open to question. It is indicated to exclude tuberculosis doubtful cases, to obtain a positive culture if other evidence is lacking, and is an absolute indication in paraplegia.