Spondylodiscitis (patient information)

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 * Assistant Editor(s)-in-Chief: Samuel A. Hom

Overview
Spondylodiscitis is swelling (inflammation) and irritation of the space between the bones of the spine (intervertebral disc space).

What are the symptoms of Spondylodiscitis?

 * Abdominal pain
 * Back pain
 * Difficulty getting up and standing
 * Increased curvature of the back
 * Irritability
 * Low-grade fever (less than 102 degrees Fahrenheit)
 * Refusal to sit up, stand, or walk (younger child)
 * Stiffness in back

Other diseases with similar symptoms are:


 * Spondylolysis
 * Spondylolisthesis
 * Spinal disc herniation

What causes Spondylodiscitis?
Spondylodiscitis is an uncommon condition. It is usually seen in children younger than age 10.

Spondylodiscitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Or it can be caused by other inflammation, such as from autoimmune diseases (conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks certain cells in the body). The upper back (thoracic) and low back (lumbar) disks are most commonly affected.

Diskitis can also be confused with problems related to hip pain.

Who is at highest risk?
Children younger then the age of 10.

When to seek urgent medical care?
Call your health care provider if your child has persistent back pain or problems with standing and walking that seem unusual for his or her age.

Treatment options
The goal is to treat the cause of the inflammation and reduce pain. Your child may receive anti-staphylococcal antibiotics if the health care provider suspects an infection. Autoimmune diseases are often treated with anti-inflammatory medications.

If the condition does not improve steroids may be given, although an infection should be ruled out first. Pain may be relieved with oral painkillers (analgesics) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Talk to the health care provider about the best choice of medications.

Bed rest or immobilization (which may require a body cast) may be recommended in some cases.

Where to find medical care for Spondylodiscitis?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Spondylodiscitis

Prevention of Spondylodiscitis
Develop abdominal strength and practice good posture.

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Children with an infection should fully recover after treatment. Chronic back pain from this condition is very rare.

In cases of autoimmune disease, the outcome depends on the condition. These are often chronic illnesses.