[Infectious spondylodiscitis--an important differential diagnosis in backache]

Abstract

All cases of spondylodiscitis diagnosed in our hospital between January 93 and April 96 have been analysed retrospectively. With regard to potentially severe complications, spondylodiscitis is an important differential diagnosis of back pain. In our results 50% of the patients had a positive bacterial culture either from blood or tissue. No complication has been observed. The most relevant diagnostic procedures are: determination of CRP, magnetic resonance imaging and eventually computed tomography in combination with biopsy and blood cultures. Magnetic resonance imaging is a very sensitive method for early stage osteomyelitis. Antimicrobial therapy should be based on the result of culture and sensitivity tests. An antibiotic with good penetration into bone is preferred.