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Pathogenesis

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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The agent causing a spinal abscess is usually bacterial, spreading from a septic focus within bone, or alternatively, from a distant focus through a haematogenous route.

The key organisms are:

  • Staphylococcus spp. - the most common
  • Streptococcus spp.
  • gram -ve bacilli - secondary to diverticulitis and chronic inflammatory bowel disease sources
  • Mycobacterium tuberculosis - rare in the UK, but worldwide it is an important cause of chronic epidural abscesses

The dura usually limit the spread of pus to the extradural space, however penetrating wounds and poor immune function may permit subdural and intramedullary spread.

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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