What does a spinal infection look like on MRI?

In most cases of spinal infection, MR images show typical findings such as vertebral endplate destruction, bone marrow and disk signal abnormalities, and paravertebral or epidural abscesses.

Would a spinal infection show on an MRI?

MRI with and without gadolinium contrast enhancement has become the gold standard in identifying spinal infection and assessing the neural elements. MRI allows for visualization of the soft tissues that include the nerves, spinal cord, and paraspinal muscles, and adjacent soft tissue around the spinal column.

How serious is an infection in the spine?

Unlike the common cold, which is usually pretty harmless, spinal infections can wreak serious havoc on your spine. As spinal discs become inflamed from disease, they may start to break down or even decay. If the vertebral bodies also become infected, then the bones that form your spinal column can crack or fracture.

Can you see spinal infection on xray?

The process of diagnosing a spinal infection usually starts with an X-ray. X-rays will usually be normal in the first 2 to 4 weeks after the infection starts. For changes to show up on an X-ray, 50% to 60% of the bone in the vertebral body needs to be destroyed.

How do you know if your spine is infected?

It can take a month or more to diagnose a spinal infection. Diagnostic tests include bloodwork to identify whether an infection is present and imaging tests to pinpoint the exact location and extent of the issue. Imaging tests typically include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scan.

How long does it take to recover from a spinal infection?

Standard treatment options for spinal infections include: Intravenous Antibiotic Medications: To kill the infection, antibiotics may be prescribed for anywhere from 7 to 10 days, to 6 to 12 weeks. A central line may need to be placed in order to assist in the administration of longer-term medications.

Can spinal infections be fatal?

If left untreated, spine infection can lead to paralysis or even fatality. Signs of spine infection include back pain, fever and a stiff back as well as possible swelling or inflammation of the spine, sensory deficit or numb, motor weakness or paralysis.

Can you have a spinal infection without fever?

The physical findings for patients with a spine infection are limited. Patients may or may not have a fever (Temperature > 101 degrees). Patients may demonstrate tenderness and spasm with decreased lumbar range-of motion.

What happens if you have an infection in your spine?

Cervical spine infections cause neck pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Intervertebral disc space infections lead to severe back pain, fever, chills, weight loss, muscle spasms, and painful or difficult urination. Spinal canal infections often produce severe back pain, tenderness, and fever.

What does spinal inflammation feel like?

Inflammation of the spine causes pain and stiffness in the low back, upper buttock area, neck, and the remainder of the spine. The onset of pain and stiffness is usually gradual and progressively worsens with loss of range of motion noticeable over months. Occasionally, the onset is rapid and intense (flare-up).