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Spondylodiscitis

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Spondylodiscitis is an inflammation of the base and upper plates of the vertebra as well as the adjoining intervertebral disc and is frequently accompanied by spondylitis (inflammation of the vertebral body).

Infectious spondylodiscitis is caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites and can result in deformed vertebral segments and neurological complications.

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Pathophysiology

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Causes

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Causes

Spondylodiscitis is an uncommon condition. It is usually seen in children younger than age 10.

Spondylodiscitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Or it can be caused by other inflammation, such as from autoimmune diseases (conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks certain cells in the body). The upper back (thoracic) and low back (lumbar) disks are most commonly affected.

Discitis can also be confused with problems related to hip pain.

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Differentiating Spondylodiscitis from other Diseases

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Differentiating Spondylodiscitis from other Diseases

Other diseases with similar symptoms are:

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Epidemiology and Demographics

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Risk Factors

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

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Overview

Risk Factors

Children younger then the age of 10 are at highest risk.

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Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

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Overview

Natural History

Complications

Prognosis

Children with an infection should fully recover after treatment. Chronic back pain from this condition is very rare. In cases of autoimmune disease, the outcome depends on the condition. These are often chronic illnesses.

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Diagnosis

Diagnosis

History and Symptoms | Physical Examination | Laboratory Findings | X Ray | CT | MRI | Other Imaging Findings | Other Diagnostic Studies

Treatment

Treatment

Medical Therapy | Surgery | Primary Prevention | Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy | Future or Investigational Therapies

Case Studies

Case Studies

Case #1

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