Spinal cord abscess

Alternative names:

abscess - spinal cord

Treatment:

The goals of treatment are relief of spinal cord compression and eradication (cure) of the infection.

Urgent surgical decompression (by laminectomy, cutting through the bones of the spine) is usually recommended. This includes drainage of the abscess. It occasionally is not possible to completely drain the abscess.

Antimicrobial medications are prescribed. Broad-spectrum antimicrobials or a combination of antibiotics are the most commonly used antimicrobials. Antimicrobial medications may be adjusted after a culture of pus determines the specific causative microorganism.

Corticosteroids may occasionally be prescribed to reduce swelling and compression of the spinal cord.

Expectations (prognosis):

An untreated spinal cord abscess progresses to spinal cord compression that causes permanent, severe paralysis and other neurologic losses. It may be life threatening.

The outcome for a treated spinal cord abscess may vary. There may be a complete recovery. A recurrence of an abscess is possible. Incomplete drainage may result in a recurrence of an abscess or development of a chronic fibrotic (scarred) mass (aggregation of cells) in the spinal cord.

Complications:

• recurrence of spinal cord abscess
• formation of fibrous spinal cord mass
• spinal cord compression, life threatening
• permanent neurologic losses (variable)
  • weakness, paralysis
  • loss of sensation
  • loss of bladder/bowel control
  • male impotence
  • other losses

Calling your health care provider:

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if symptoms of spinal cord abscess occur. This is usually an emergency condition!