Alternative Names
Abscess – epidural; Spinal abscess
Definition of Epidural abscess
An epidural abscess is a collection of pus (infected material) between the outer covering of the brain and spinal cord and the bones of the skull or spine. The abscess causes swelling in the area.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Epidural abscess is a rare disorder caused by infection in the area between the bones of the skull or spine, and the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord (meninges). This infection is called an intracranial epidural abscess if it is inside the skull area, or a spinal epidural abscess if it is found in the spine area. Most are located in the spine.
Symptoms
Spinal epidural abscess:
Signs and tests
The health care provider will perform an exam to look for a loss of functions such as movement or sensation.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to cure the infection and reduce the risk of permanent damage. Treatment usually includes antibiotics and surgery. In rare cases, antibiotics alone are used.
Expectations (prognosis)
Early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve the chance of a good outcome. Once weakness, , or sensation changes occur, the chances of recovering lost function are reduced. Permanent nervous system damage or death may occur.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 9/15/2010
