ABSTRACT
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article reviews infectious etiologies of spinal cord dysfunction, emphasizing the importance of recognizing common clinicoradiographic syndromes and interpreting them in the context of exposure risk and individual host susceptibilities. RECENT FINDINGS: This article discusses the shifting spectrum of neurologic infectious diseases, the growing population of patients who are immunocompromised, and the emergence of effective antiretroviral therapies. In addition, it discusses new molecular and serologic tests that have the potential to enhance our ability to rapidly and accurately diagnose infectious diseases of the spine. SUMMARY: When evaluating patients with suspected infectious myelopathies, it is imperative to narrow the range of pathogens under consideration. The geography, seasonality, and clinicoradiographic presentation and immunocompetence status of the patient define the range of potential pathogens and should guide testing and initial management.
Subject(s)
Communicable Diseases , HIV Infections , Spinal Cord Diseases , Humans , Spinal Cord Diseases/diagnostic imaging , Spinal Cord Diseases/therapyABSTRACT
Telehealth reduces disparities that result from physical disabilities, difficulties with transportation, geographic barriers, and scarcity of specialists, which are commonly experienced by individuals with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D). The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has been an international leader in the use of virtual health. The VA's SCI/D System of Care is the nation's largest coordinated system of lifelong care for people with SCI/D and has implemented the use of telehealth to ensure that Veterans with SCI/D have convenient access to their health care, particularly during the restrictions that were imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.