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Microbial diseases of the spine are called spinal infections. Spinal infections are rare in children compared to adults. The bony parts, disks, and/or the spinal cord can be effected. However, in children spinal infections are commonly observed in the disks.
How do spinal infections occur in children?
The infection causing bacteria generally spread through blood vessels from another infection source in the body (i.e. respiratory tract infections).
What are the symptoms of spinal infections in children?
The symptoms of spinal infections in children are fever, back pain, abdominal pain, difficulty in walking and pain while walking. The pain may be worse at night. Back pain can sometimes extend to the hips. In rare instances, the infection can spread to the spinal cord, causing compression and weakness in legs.
How are spinal infections in children diagnosed?
Blood tests and MRI are used to diagnosis spinal infections.
How are spinal infections in children treated?
Most often, antibiotic treatment will address and control a spinal infection. Surgery is not required for the majority of cases.