Spinal Infections Information

Vertebral osteomyelitis refers to an infection of the vertebral body in the spine. It is a fairly rare cause of back pain, especially in young healthy adults. It can develop from direct open spinal trauma, infections in adjacent structures, or from hematogenous spread of bacteria to a vertebra, or it can occur postoperatively. A spinal infection may cause permanent injury or take root in the epidural cavity. This cavity is a fatty area near nerve roots and provides space for an infection or abscess.

Generally, the infection is spread to the vertebral body by a vascular route. The veins in the lower spine drain the pelvis and provide for a direct route of entry for the bacteria to get into the spine. Vertebral osteomyelitis is considered uncommon, with an incidence of 1 case per 100,000-250,000 population per year.

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