Spinal infections

Infection of the spine with pyogenic and non-pyogenic organisms causes significant morbidity and mortality if not recognized and treated appropriately. Careful assessment of patients with back pain who present to primary and secondary care is essential to distinguish those with insidious progression of spinal infection from benign spinal pathology. Multiple investigations, both haematological and radiological, are necessary in the investigation of the patient with a suspected infection of the spine. A combination of microbiological treatment and appropriately timed surgical intervention to address neurological compromise and mechanical failure is paramount in ensuring the best possible outcome.