Epidemiology of Spinal Infection

Abstract

Spinal infection is a serious disease which can result in neurological complications, with potentially high morbidity and mortality. Spondylodiscitis can be due to various pyogenic organisms, granulomatous organisms such as tuberculosis and brucellosis, and rarely, parasitic or fungal organisms. The incidence of spondylodiscitis varies from region to region, with the incidence of pyogenic spondylodiscitis being more frequent in developed countries. Tuberculosis and brucellar infections are more frequent in developing countries. There are also variations in risk factors for the different organisms and locations. The symptoms of spondylodiscitis are typically nonspecific, with a delay between symptom onset and diagnosis usually being long. Rapid and effective diagnosis and management help prevent irreversible neurological and bony complications.