Korean J Anesthesiol.  2004 Aug;47(2):269-272. 10.4097/kjae.2004.47.2.269.

Epidural Abscess Following Continuous Epidural Catheterization for the Management of Chronic Cancer Pain: A case report

• Lee SA
• Lee SG
• Min BW

• KMID: 2237541
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4097/kjae.2004.47.2.269

Abstract

Epidural abscess is a rare complication of epidural catheterization. Moreover, the early diagnosis of abscess may be difficult because of nonspecific symptoms and underlying painful disorder. It's outcome is strongly associated with the level of neurologic function at the time of diagnosis. We report the case of a cancer patient with diabetes mellitus, who developed an epidural abscess after 90 days of continuous epidural catheterization. In this case, the patient had no other neurologic symptom except for a tingling sensation in both legs, which recovered fully after surgery. This case demonstrates that the early diagnosis of epidural abscess and prompt surgical procedures are important, and can result in a good neurologic outcome.

Keyword

epidural abscess; epidural catheterization; cancer pain

MeSH Terms

Abscess
Catheterization*
Catheters*
Diabetes Mellitus
Diagnosis
Early Diagnosis
Epidural Abscess*
Humans
Leg
Neurologic Manifestations
Sensation