Discitis
Discitis
Discitis is an inflammation of the disc space of usually the thoracic or lumbar spine found in adults but more commonly seen in children. It is a very painful condition and can be aggravated by moving the spine; hence, the patient will walk very stiffly without flexing or extending the back. The pain can also radiate to the groin, abdomen, legs or hips. It can be caused by viruses, inflammatory processes or staphylococcus; however, it is usually not accompanied by fever or other systemic signs of infection. It can be diagnosed with x-rays, bone scans and MRI scans. Treatment involves immobilization and antibiotics in children and can also include biopsy in adults. Occasionally surgery is needed if the infection does not resolve or if the nerves get compressed by the infection (Abscess)