Extensive cervical epidural abscess: case report

Background: Spinal epidural abscess is very annoying problem, which needs an immediate medical attention. Its presence within the cervical spine is life threating issue because of the vital functions that can be compromised as a result from just the compression effect. So the concept of the bony decompression is essential in such cases. Aim: To describe a rare presentation of spinal epidural abscess, a case report of an extensive epidural abscess within the cervical spinal region. Results: Case report of cervical epidural abscess in 56 year old male from Rosetta complained of acute onset of neck pain for about 2 months, with progressive course of upper and lower limbs weakness and with no sphincter affection. Patient has not undergone any neck and back surgery previously. Patient has a history of renal impairment and on medical treatment for about 4 years. Magnetic Resonance imaging of the cervical spine, showed ventral cervical spinal cord compression by an epidural abscess extending from the apex of dens to the level of C5. Surgical intervention via anterior approach and corpectomy of the C4 and C5, iliac crest graft with plate and screws fixation was done. About 3 months after surgery, the patient markedly improved and was able to perform the usual lifestyle activities. Conclusion: Diagnosing patient with epidural abscess within the cervical spine is somewhat a difficult suspecting issue in patient with no history of chronic illness nor previous spine surgery. Evacuation of the abscess and corpectomy of the friable pathological levels, fusion with iliac crest graft and fixation with plate and screws was a suitable option in management of this case.

Biography :

Mohamed Gohary is working as Neurosurgery MD at Alexandria University and Consultant of Neurosurgery. Also Member in NAAS. Member in ESA and Member in ENS.

E-mail: seba3y700025@yahoo.com

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