Pyogenic spondylitis: Clinical features, diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Although pyogenic spondylitis is an infrequent infection, its incidence is increasing because of the growing number of elderly people and immunocompromised patients. Diagnosis is often difficult and appropriate imaging, blood cultures and/or biopsy are essential in making an early diagnosis. Most of the cases can be treated non-operatively. Surgical treatment is indicated in patients with spinal cord or cauda equine compression with progressive neurological deficits and/or patients who have failed conservative treatment. Early and accurate diagnosis of pyogenic spondylitis is important for timely and effective management, in order to reduce the occurrence of spinal deformity and dysfunction.