Korean J Pain.  2009 Aug;22(2):176-180. 10.3344/kjp.2009.22.2.176.

Spondylodiscitis Misdiagnosed as Spinal Stenosis and Compression Fracture: A report of two cases

• Hong JH
• Kim SY
• Han SH

• KMID: 1770513
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3344/kjp.2009.22.2.176

Abstract

Cases of pyogenic spondylodiscitis are relatively rare diseases that concern 2-7% of total cases of osteomyelitis. Owing to the low frequency and initial nonspecific nature of signs and symptoms, diagnosis is often delayed up to 2-6 months. If the proper treatment is not established due to a diagnostic delay, there is a possibility of a serious neurologic deficit and spinal instability. We report two cases of infectious spondylodiscitis which were misdiagnosed as compression fracture and spinal stenosis respectively. They could be correctly diagnosed after MRI and laboratory test and under the recovery state after an antifungal and antibiotic medication. Special careful attention during the diagnostic procedure is a really important step considering the diagnostic delay and its resultant unsatisfactory outcome.

Keyword

diagnostic delay; spondylodiscitis

MeSH Terms

Discitis
Fractures, Compression
Neurologic Manifestations
Osteomyelitis
Rare Diseases
Spinal Stenosis