What Is a Spine Infection?

A spine infection occurs when bacteria, fungi, or other organisms infect the structures of the spine. Spine infections can affect the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, or tissues surrounding the spinal cord and nerves.

Common types of spine infections include:

• Osteomyelitis: An infection of the vertebral bone.
• Discitis: An infection of an intervertebral disc.
• Epidural Abscess: A collection of infected material in the space between the spinal cord or nerve roots and the surrounding membrane.

Spine infections require medical treatment, and in some cases, surgery may be needed to remove infected tissue, relieve pressure on the nerves, or stabilize the spine.

What Causes a Spine Infection?

Spine infections can develop when bacteria or fungi reach the structures of the spine. Certain factors can increase the risk of developing an infection, including:

• Older age
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Malnutrition
• A weakened immune system
• Diabetes
• Cancer

A spine infection can also develop following spinal surgery.

Spine Infection Symptoms

Symptoms of a spine infection can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. They may include:

• Back pain
• Fever and chills
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Redness or tenderness around a surgical wound
• Drainage from a wound
• Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs

A doctor may use a physical examination, blood tests, blood cultures, and imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans, to diagnose a spine infection and help identify the organism causing it.