Spontaneous Cervical Spondylodiscitis With Retropharyngeal Abscess and Bacteremia: A Case Report

Abstract

Retropharyngeal abscess is a deep neck infection, rarely reported in adults. Nevertheless, when it occurs, it is mostly in immunocompromised patients and it can have life-threatening complications such as airway obstruction. On the other hand, more insidious complications can develop, such as mediastinitis, spinal osteomyelitis, and epidural abscess which represent an emergency medical condition when the patient develops neurologic symptoms. All must be diagnosed early and treated promptly. Spinal infection is an ancient disease, yet, morbidity remains significant despite developments in surgical and radiologic methods and the discovery of antibiotics. Management frequently involves a combination of these to achieve the best results. The aim of this case report, as a research design, is to describe scientific observations that we encountered in a clinical setting, expand our knowledge, and highlight the role of the interprofessional team in evaluating and managing these conditions.

Keywords: bacteremia; cervical spondylodiscitis; immunosuppression; retropharyngeal abscess; staphylococcus aureus.

Figure 1. Sagittal section of the spine on MRI: the star shows the retropharyngeal abscess and the arrow shows the formation of the spinal cord.

Figure 2. Postoperative cervical CT: the star shows the reduction of the retropharyngeal collection.