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Hidden Threat: Unveiling the Dangers of Cervical Epidural Abscess

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Cervical epidural abscess (CEA) is an unusual but severe condition. In most cases, it can be related to infections such as the methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus at the sites of intravenous cannulae. The current case report describes a patient who developed a right epidural abscess at C₅-C₇, diagnosed following persistent chest pain and fever. He eventually recovered after surgical decompression with intravenous antibiotics. The diagnosis of spinal epidural abscess (SEA) is very challenging because of the nonspecific character of symptoms. Early diagnosis using leukocytosis, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and MRI is crucial for preventing irreversible neurological deficits, as this case illustrates the importance of prompt intervention and meticulous follow-up to avoid complications like irreversible neurological deficits and enable spinal stabilization.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.69807

Authors: Praneeth Ulavala, Hemalatha Bhoompally, Hari Chandana Kalangi, Sravanthi Narapaneni, Swati Baraiya

Institutions: Narayan Medical College and Hospital, Yashoda Hospital, Kamineni Hospitals, Bombay Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Infectious Diseases and Tuberculosis

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4402666513