[Spinal subdural empyemas and abscesses]

Abstract

The rare spinal subdural empyemas and abscesses arise in the majority of cases by hematogenic way. Typical is the combination of symptoms of general infection, irritation of the meninges and neurological deterioration without severe radiological alterations (spondylodiscitis, tumor) of the vertebral column. There are atypical, oligosymptomatic courses. Very important is an early diagnosis by myelography and a prompt surgical intervention.