Spinal cord abscess

Definition

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

Alternative Names

Causes

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

Pus forms as a collection of fluid, destroyed tissue cells, white blood cells, and live and dead microorganisms. The pus is commonly enclosed 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 compresses the spinal cord.

The infection is usually bacterial, often a result of staphylococcus infection that spreads through the bones and membranes of the spine. In some rare cases, the infection may be due to a fungus or virus. Tuberculosis is a cause of spinal cord abscess that is less common than in the past but still occurs in some areas of the world.

The following increase your risk of a spinal cord abscess:

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

The initial infection often begins in the bone (osteomyelitis). The bone infection may trigger formation of an epidural abscess which enlarges and rapidly compresses the spinal cord, causing symptoms similar to those caused by exterior sources of spinal cord trauma.

The disorder is rare, but may be life threatening.