Spinal infections

Spinal infections are precisely what their name suggests, infections that specifically affect the spine and spinal cord. These infections occur typically due to another infection that has spread to the spine.

Spinal cord infections are rare, but infections may have dire consequences if they are not effectively managed or treated.

At Advocate Health Care, our Brain & Spine Institute offers convenient locations throughout Chicagoland. Our spine specialist team is committed to providing you with easy access to expert care for a spinal infection.

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Causes of spinal infection

Spinal infections are most often caused by bacteria. In some cases, a spinal infection can be due to viruses or fungi. In some cases, a spinal infection can be a complication from a previous surgery.

Most of the time, spine infections enter the spine through different pathways, including from blood infection, nearby infected tissues or trauma to the spine itself. While rare, there are times where an infection forms in the spinal cord directly.

When an infection spreads to the spine, it can cause the bones to become weak and collapse. This puts pressure on the spinal cord and vertebrae and causes back pain that worsens over time.

Spinal infections are serious and require immediate medical attention. Early detection and getting proper treatment are needed for healing the spinal infection and preventing complications.

Not all conditions mimicking spinal infections are infectious. Inflammatory conditions or autoimmune disorders may present symptoms such as those seen in spinal infections.

Risk factors for spinal infections

Conditions that compromise the immune system are risk factors for a spinal infection, including:

• Intravenous drug use
• Organ transplants
• A compromised immune system
• HIV/AIDS
• Autoimmune disease
• Long-term use of steroids
• Diabetes
• Cancer

Types of spinal infections and their characteristics

There are many types of spinal infections, such as discitis osteomyelitis and epidural abscess. Each type of spinal infection has unique treatment options.

Spinal infections are put into one of three categories:

• Bacterial spinal infections: This type of spine infection is typically caused by bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus and E-coli. The bacteria enter the spine through various means such as bloodstream infection or direct contamination during surgery. These infections often manifest as discitis (inflammation of discs between the vertebra), vertebral osteomyelitis (infection in the bones) or epidural abscesses (collection of pus in the epidural space).
• Viral spinal infections: Also rare, this type of infection is usually caused by a virus such as the herpes simplex virus, which can lead to meningitis.
• Fungal spinal infections: A less common type of spine infection, fungal infections occur in individuals with weakened immune systems or those who have undergone invasive procedures. Fungi such as Candida or Aspergillus may invade the spine and cause conditions like discitis or vertebral osteomyelitis.

Symptoms and signs of spinal infections

Understanding your symptoms can help your provider give appropriate care. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Fever and chills
• Loss of appetite
• Persistent back pain that gets worse over time, especially at night or with movement
• Stiffness in the neck or back
• Weight loss

Certain spinal infection symptoms are cause for concern. Schedule an appointment with your doctor if you have or experience:

• A compromised immune system due to an autoimmune disorder
• Bowel or bladder dysfunction
• Recent history of infection or surgery near the spine
• Severe pain that limits daily activities or disrupts sleep
• Unexplained fever accompanied by back pain
• Weakness or numbness in the arms and legs

Getting prompt medical care can help get an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

Diagnosing spinal infections

Diagnosing spinal infections involves various tests and procedures. Your doctor will perform a physical exam and review your symptoms and medical history. They may use a range of diagnostic tools to accurately identify the type of spinal infection and create an appropriate treatment plan.

Imaging tests play a crucial role in the diagnosis of spinal infections. Techniques such as X-rays, MRI and CT scans provide detailed images of the spine, allowing your provider to see any abnormalities or signs of infection.

In addition to imaging tests, blood tests or a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) may be performed. A lumbar puncture involves collecting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the lower back (lumbar spine) through a needle.

The collected fluid is then analyzed for signs of infection, such as elevated white blood cell count or presence of bacteria or fungi.

Treatment options for spinal infections

Spine infection treatment options involve a combination of medications and surgical procedures. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Antibiotics play a critical role in treating spinal infections caused by bacteria but will not work on viral or fungal spinal infections. The specific choice of antibiotics will depend on the severity of infection and the type of bacteria causing the infection.

Viral infections are treated with antiviral medications, while infections caused by fungi are treated with antifungal medications.

Surgery may be necessary to address severe or persistent spinal infections. Surgical procedures aim to remove infected tissue, drain abscesses, stabilize the spine and promote healing.

It's vital to consult with your provider to pinpoint the type of infection so they can develop a treatment plan for your spinal infection.