Prognostic Factors of Pyogenic Spinal Infections

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study is performed to evaluate the clinical manifestations and prognostic factors among patients with pyogenic spinal infections. METHODS: The records and radiologic data of 27 patients treated between 2001 and 2003 were retrospectively evaluated. RESULTS: All patients (mean age, 55.2yrs) were treated with i.v. antibiotics and 13(48.1%) required surgical treatment. Mean follow up duration was 38.9 weeks. The sixteen patients(59.2%) had previous surgical procedure on spine and six patients(22.0%) had local injections. The ten patients had predisposing factor (such as, diabetes mellitus, UTI, liver cirrhosis, septic condition). The most common symptoms are lower back pain and motor weakness. Causative organisms determined only in ten patients(37%) and Staphylococcus aureus(50%) was most common. C-reactive protein(CRP) and white blood cell(WBC) count were more correlated with clinical outcome than erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR). CONCLUSION: CRP and WBC level can be significant parameters of treatment and prognosis in pyogenic spinal infection.