MRI Discitis (Spondylodiscitis)

Discitis is an infection in the intervertebral disc space that can lead to inflammation. It often occurs in children but can affect adults as well. This condition can result from a bacterial or viral infection and is relatively rare. The intervertebral discs are the spongy cushions that separate the bones (vertebrae) of the spine, and when these discs become infected, they can swell, causing pain and other symptoms.

Symptoms of Discitis

The symptoms of discitis can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the patient’s age. Common symptoms include:

• Back pain: This is the most frequent symptom, often localized to the affected disc space.
• Abdominal pain: Sometimes, especially in children, the pain may be referred to the abdomen.
• Fever: As with many infections, a fever may develop.
• Difficulty bending or moving the spine: Stiffness and discomfort may occur, making it hard to flex or bend.
• Irritability or discomfort: Especially in children, who may be unable to articulate the source of their discomfort.
• Neurological symptoms: In severe cases, if the infection compresses nerves, there could be numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Causes

Discitis can be caused by a range of bacterial or viral organisms. Staphylococcus aureus is a common bacterial culprit. The infection can reach the disc space through the bloodstream, direct external inoculation, or as a complication from surgery or invasive procedures.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing discitis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging tests, such as:

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): The most sensitive test for detecting discitis.
• CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: Can also be used, particularly if MRI is not available.
• X-rays: May show narrowing of the disc space or bony erosion in chronic cases.
• Blood tests: Elevated white blood cell count, C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) can indicate infection.

Treatment

Treatment of discitis involves several approaches:

• Antibiotics or Antivirals: Long-term treatment with the appropriate medications is the mainstay for managing an infectious cause of discitis. The exact type of antibiotics will depend on the suspected or confirmed causative agent.
• Pain Management: Pain relief is an essential part of the treatment, often requiring analgesics and sometimes narcotics, depending on the severity of the pain.
• Rest: Immobilization of the spine can reduce pain and inflammation. In children, this may sometimes require bed rest.
• Bracing: A spinal brace may help to immobilize the affected area and relieve pain by reducing motion at the infected disc space.
• Surgery: In severe or refractory cases, particularly if there is abscess formation, neural compression, or severe vertebral destruction, surgery may be necessary to debride the infection and stabilize the spine.