CT of osteomyelitis of the spine

Computed tomography in spondylitis: CT versus other radiographic methods

“…On the basis of our study and other investigations, it seems that the existence of soft tissue involvement is very typical of spondylitis (Golimbu et al 1984 Whelan et al 1983); paravertebral invasion was seen in 17 of our 21 examinations. The combination of soft tissue involvement and bone destruction is also found in neoplastic cases, but differential diagnosis between neoplastic and spondylitic changes is usually possible on CT. CT is a superior method in demonstrating a paravertebral mass and is the only method which permits qualitative evaluation.…”

Vertebral Osteomyelitis due toCandidaSpecies: Case Report and Literature Review

“…Plain radiographs frequently show erosive and destructive vertebral changes, but these may not be visible for weeks to months [68]. Although CT scanning can identify earlier bony changes and can also evaluate the presence of paravertebral or spinal canal extension [69], candidal vertebral osteomyelitis has no characteristic CT findings [31]. In contrast, Williams et al [29] reported several characteristic MRI findings in 3 cases of fungal vertebral osteomyelitis that distinguished those cases from bacterial vertebral osteomyelitis.…”

Diagnostic Yield of Multidetector Computed Tomography in Patients with Acute Spondylodiscitis

“…Second, MDCT has limitations with respect to the detection of epidural fluid even if intravenous contrast material is used, which is also in line with a previous study [20]. This is an important clinical concern because epidural abscess in spondylodiscitis -if not accurately treated -accounts for significant morbidity (e. g. persisting neurological deficits) and mortality rates [21].…”