J Korean Pain Soc.  2003 Dec;16(2):286-290.

Epidural Abscess after Epidural Block for Pain Management: A report of 3 cases

• Kim DH
• Kim DC
• Lee JR
• Han YJ
• Choe H

Abstract

An epidural abscess is a very rare complication of an epidural block for pain control, and catherization of the extradural space is believed to be the major cause. A non-catheter related epidural abscess is extremely rare. Herein, three cases of an epidural abscess are reported. Two were non-catheter related epidural abscesses (cases 2 and 3) and the other one was a catheter related abscess, in a patient with diabetes mellitus (DM) (case 1). Motor deficit was completely recovered in all three patients, but slight sensory deficit was continuously noted in two of the patients (cases 2 and 3). An arachnoiditis, a rarer complication than an epidural abscess, developed in one patient (case 3). This report focuses on the risks of an epidural abscess, especially in DM patients, and the importance of sterilization, early diagnosis and prompt specific treatment. It is suggest that the prophylactic administration of a broad spectrum antibacterial agents be used for the treatment of patients with multiple risks of infection, especially in those with DM.

Keyword

Arachnoiditis; Diabetes mellitus; Epidural abscess

MeSH Terms

Abscess
Anti-Bacterial Agents
Arachnoid
Arachnoiditis
Catheters
Diabetes Mellitus
Early Diagnosis
Epidural Abscess*
Humans
Pain Management*
Sterilization
Anti-Bacterial Agents