IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Spinal epidural abscess

Case contributed by Roberto Schubert
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Intermittent fever, back pain and tenderness in a patient with diabetes mellitus, foot ulcer and MRSA infection.

Patient Data

Age: 60 years
Gender: Female

Dorsal spine

mri

An elliptical posterior extradural collection is noted at the dorsal spine with high T2 signal and enhancement of the surrounding dura. It exerts scalloping and compression of the spinal cord.

Case Discussion

Haematogenic epidural abscesses (as opposed to post-operative infectious complications) are often located dorsally.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.