Infectious origins of cauda equina syndrome.
Infections in the spine can lead to a wide range of problems for both the patient and physician. There is perhaps no more devastating complication than the neurological consequences of a cauda equina syndrome due to spinal infection. A variety of organisms and origins can make diagnosis and treatment of spinal infection a difficult task. Both pyogenic and nonpyogenic organisms can cause vertebral involvement and can result in an epidural abscess with neurological compromise. Nonetheless, these two types of infections vary greatly in terms of associated patient demographics, clinical course, and treatments. The purpose of this paper was to review these types of infections and summarize treatment recommendations for this difficult condition.
Cohen
David B
DB
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21287, USA. dcohen@jhmi.edu
D003646:Debridement; D020802:Epidural Abscess / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011128:Polyradiculopathy / Q000209:etiology*; D016896:Treatment Outcome