Imaging of Spinal Tuberculosis

Abstract

Spinal tuberculosis remains frequent in low- and middle-income countries, with an increased incidence of infections having been recently observed in developed countries. It represents 25–60% of all musculoskeletal tuberculosis. Tuberculous spondylodiscitis (also called Pott disease), isolated tuberculous vertebral osteomyelitis and primitive neural arch tuberculosis are the three main anatomico-radiological patterns. Magnetic resonance imaging is the gold standard imaging technique for the assessment of spinal tuberculosis, allowing an early and precise diagnosis. In the absence of early and adequate treatment, the disease may progress, leading to spinal deformities and/or neurological impairment. The diagnosis is usually straightforward when the patient already has existing extraskeletal tuberculosis. Otherwise, spinal tuberculosis is typically confirmed by bacteriological and/or histopathological tests.