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Our ServicesLumbar spine infections

Lumbar spine infections are rare but serious conditions that can lead to significant complications if left untreated. They affect the lower portion of the spine and may involve the vertebrae (bones), intervertebral discs, or surrounding soft tissues. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for early detection and effective management.

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What Is a Lumbar Spine Infection?

A lumbar spine infection, also known as spondylodiscitis, vertebral osteomyelitis, or epidural abscess (depending on the specific area affected), is an infection that occurs in the lower (lumbar) part of the spine. These infections can be bacterial, fungal, or, rarely, viral.

Back pain and beyond

When conservative care needs
a specialist’s touch.

Causes and
Risk Factors

Most lumbar spine infections are caused by bacteria, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most common culprit. Infections can reach the spine through:

  • Hematogenous spread (via bloodstream from other parts of the body)
  • Direct inoculation during spinal surgery or injections
  • Contiguous spread from nearby infected tissues

Risk factors include:

  • Weakened immune system (due to diabetes, HIV, cancer, etc.)
  • IV drug use
  • Recent spinal surgery or instrumentation
  • Chronic infections elsewhere in the body
  • Elderly age

Common Types of Lumbar Spine Infections

Vertebral osteomyelitis – Infection of the vertebral bones.

Discitis – Infection of the intervertebral disc space.

Epidural abscess – A collection of pus in the epidural space, which can compress the spinal cord or nerves.

Signs and Symptoms

Early symptoms can be vague, often resembling common back pain. However, the pain tends to be more severe and persistent. Key symptoms include:

Severe lower back pain

Fever and chills

Night sweats

Unexplained weight loss

Neurological symptoms like numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking (especially if the infection compresses the spinal cord or nerves)

Diagnosis

Prompt diagnosis is essential to prevent permanent damage. Diagnostic tools include:

Blood tests – Elevated white blood cells, ESR, CRP

MRI with contrast – The most sensitive imaging technique for detecting spinal infections

CT-guided biopsy – To identify the causative organism

Blood cultures – To determine if the infection has spread systemically

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity and extent of the infection

01.

Antibiotic Therapy

  • Often the first line of treatment
  • Typically administered intravenously for 4–6 weeks, followed by oral antibiotics
  • The choice of antibiotics is based on the identified pathogen

02.

Surgical Intervention

Indicated when there is:

  • Spinal instability
  • Neurological deficits
  • Abscess formation
  • Failure of conservative treatment

Surgical goals include debridement of infected tissue, decompression of neural elements, and stabilization of the spine.

Recovery and Prognosis

With timely treatment, many patients recover well, though the healing process can be slow. Delays in diagnosis or treatment increase the risk of complications such as:

Chronic pain

Spinal deformities

Permanent neurological damage

Sepsis

Prevention Tips

Proper hygiene during spinal procedures

Prompt treatment of infections elsewhere in the body

Avoiding IV drug use

Regular medical checkups, especially for at-risk individuals

Final Thoughts

Lumbar spine infections are medical emergencies that require a high index of suspicion, especially in patients with persistent back pain and systemic symptoms. Early diagnosis and targeted therapy are key to preventing serious complications and ensuring a successful recovery.