An unusual case of spondylodiscitis.
METHODS
A case report of spontaneous pyogenic spondylodiscitis and epidural abscess in vertebral fracture by an uncommon pathogen is described.


OBJECTIVE
The uncommon presentation of spondylodiscitis with epidural abscess due to Gemella morbillorum after an acute lumbar vertebral fracture treated conservatively is discussed.


BACKGROUND
Spontaneous spondylodiscitis and epidural abscess in nonsurgical fractures is exceptionally rare. To date its colonization with Gemella morbillorum is not described in the literature. Its resistance to penicillin is also uncommon.


METHODS
Diagnosis was based on clinical history, hemocultures, samples from CT-scan guided punction and, supported by magnetic resonance imaging.


RESULTS
Clinical and radiologic improvement were observed after treatment based on a combined specific antimicrobial therapy and surgical drainage of epidural abscess.


CONCLUSIONS
Spondylodiscitis and epidural abscess secondary to an acute nonsurgical vertebral fracture are rare manifestations. Microbiology and MRI are vital components in diagnosis. An emergency decompression and appropriate antibiotic regimen is the solution for a favorable outcome.
García-Bordes
Luis
L
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Clínica Copérnico, Barcelona, Spain. lluisgarbo@yahoo.com
Aguilera-Repiso
Juan A
JA
Serfaty-Soler
Juan C
JC
Collado-Fábregas
Fernando
F
Martínez-Montauti
Joaquín
J
de Llobet-Zubiaga
Josep Maria
JM
Gómez-Bonsfills
Xavier
X
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020806:Central Nervous System Bacterial Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery; D019299:Decompression, Surgical; D015299:Discitis / Q000150:complications* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000601:surgery; D020802:Epidural Abscess / Q000150:complications* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000150:complications* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000601:surgery; D040141:Staphylococcaceae; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents