Cervical epidural abscess after cupping and acupuncture

SummaryStudy designRetrospective case report.ObjectiveReport of an uncommon complication of cupping and acupuncture.Summary of background dataEpidural abscess after cupping and acupuncture therapies is quite rare. Only a few cases of epidural abscess after acupuncture have been reported. The present report describes a case of cervical epidural abscess that developed after cupping and acupuncture.MethodsA 47-year-old woman presented with swelling and pain in the posterior nuchal region. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine revealed a well-enhanced epidural mass at the C1–C3 level that was determined to be an epidural abscess.ResultsThe symptoms related to epidural abscess resolved after treatment with antibiotics.ConclusionAlthough a rare complication, epidural abscess is a possibility when applying cupping and acupuncture. Therapists need to be aware of human anatomy in the vicinity of the puncture and must give continuous attention to hygiene throughout the procedure.