Vertebral osteomyelitis refers to an infection of the vertebral body in the spine. It is a fairly rare cause of back pain, especially in young healthy adults. It can develop from direct open spinal trauma, infections in adjacent structures, or from hematogenous spread of bacteria to a vertebra, or it can occur postoperatively. A spinal infection may cause permanent injury or take root in the epidural cavity. This cavity is a fatty area near nerve roots and provides space for an infection or abscess.

Generally, the infection is spread to the vertebral body by a vascular route. The veins in the lower spine drain the pelvis and provide for a direct route of entry for the bacteria to get into the spine. Vertebral osteomyelitis is considered uncommon, with an incidence of 1 case per 100,000-250,000 population per year.

A certain group of people are at risk. These are the smokers, the obese, the malnourished, the immunosuppressed, either from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

Approximately 95% of pyogenic spinal infections involve the vertebral body, and only 5% involve the posterior elements of the spine.Children with vertebral osteomyelitis and associated diskitis usually present with an abrupt onset of malaise, fever, and back pain. They commonly demonstrate back stiffness, restricted motion, guarded walking, and spine tenderness. Antibiotics are given for variable lengths of time. Nonsurgical treatment may include intravenous or oral antibiotics combined with bed rest. In some cases surgical intervention may be necessary to eradicate the infection.

Spinal Infections Treatment Tips

1. Oral antibiotics is also helpful against spinal infections.

2. Antibiotics are given for variable lengths of time.

3. Surgical intervention may be necessary to eradicate the infection.