J Korean Pain Soc.  1996 Jun;9(1):275-278.

Spinal Epidural and Subdural Abscess following Epidural Catheterization: A case report

• Lim GJ
• Kim HJ

Abstract

The placement of epidural catheter may cause complications such as epidural hematoma, epidural abscess and neural damage. Among the above complications, epidural abscess is a rare but serious complication. This report pertains to a diabetic metlitus patient who developed spinal epidural and subdural abscess after continuous epidural catheterization for management of pain caused by reflex sympathetic dystrophy. The patient experienced urinary incontinence, as a neurologic sign, 8 days after epidural catherization. It was considered that the poor prognosis was due to a combination effects of a delayed visit to the hospital for treatment, rapid progression of abscess and uncontrolled blood sugar level. We therefore recommend aseptic technique and proper control of blood sugar level to prevent infection during and after epidural catheterization for diabetic patients. Early diagnosis of epidural abscess following surgical procedure must be required to avoid sequelae.

Keyword

Analgesia: epidural; Complication; epidural abscess; subdural abscess

MeSH Terms

Abscess*
Blood Glucose
Catheterization*
Catheters*
Early Diagnosis
Epidural Abscess
Hematoma
Humans
Methods
Neurologic Manifestations
Prognosis
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
Urinary Incontinence
Blood Glucose