Spinal disk inflammation

Description

Discitis or spinal disk inflammation is condition in which a intervertebral disc is infected or inflamed. The intervertebral discis pillow-like structures between the verterbras of the back. Discitis can appear due to bacteria in the blood which come to the disc or due to the inflammation caused by an autoimmune disease. The infection may also occur by spreading of close infections and sometimes as a consequence of diagnostic testing or surgery.

Symptoms

Fever, pain in back, stiffness of back, exhaustion, numbness of the back, limbs getting numb.

Overview

Anamnesis is being taken and physical examination is being done. X-rays, CT scan and/or magnetic resonance imaging-MRI are being done. MRI is the most precise method for detection of disease. A number of white blood cells andsedimentation of erythrocytes are being measured and followed.

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC), biochemical blood analysis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-rays.

Additional analyses

Sedimentation of erythrocytes (SE)

Specialists

Neurosurgery

Therapy

Antibiotics are prescribed, particularly those who cover staphylococcal infections. If the disease is caused by an autoimmune disease, anti-inflammatory drugs or immunosuppressants may be prescribed.