Multiple epidural abscesses and spinal anesthesia in a diabetic patient. Case report

Abstract

Background and objectives: Spinal anesthesia as a cause of epidural abscess is extremely rare. Infection at the site of needle placement is the usual cause of abscess formation.

Methods: Immunocompromised patients, and in this case a diabetic patient may be at higher risk for this complication.

Results: Anesthesiologist need to be aware of factors that may lead to epidural abscess formation.

Conclusions: The signs and symptoms of this unfortunate complication should be uppermost in the physician's mind when assessing new neurologic deficits after regional anesthesia.