Spinal cord abscess - Overview

Definition of Spinal cord abscess:

Spinal cord abscess is swelling and irritation (inflammation) and the collection of infected material (pus) around the spinal cord.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A spinal cord abscess is caused by an infection inside the spine. An abscess of the spinal cord itself is very rare. A spinal abscess usually occurs as an epidural abscess.

Pus forms as a collection of:

• Destroyed tissue cells
• Fluid
• Llive and dead bacteria and other microorganisms
• White blood cells

The pus is commonly covered by a lining or membrane that forms around the edges. The pus collection causes pressure on the spinal cord. The infection may cause inflammation and swelling, which also presses on (compresses) the spinal cord.

The infection is usually due to bacteria. Often it is caused by a staphylococcus infection that spreads through the spine. It may be caused by tuberculosis in some areas of the world, but it is not as common today as it was in the past. In rare cases, the infection may be due to a fungus or virus.

The following increase your risk of a spinal cord abscess:

• Back injuries or trauma, including minor ones
• Boils on the skin, especially on the back or scalp
• Complication of lumbar puncture or back surgery
• Spread of any infection through the bloodstream from another part of the body (bacteremia)

The infection often begins in the bone (osteomyelitis). The bone infection may cause an epidural abscess to form. This abscess gets larger and presses on the spinal cord.

The disorder is rare, but may be life-threatening.