​Spinal Cord Abscess

Spinal cord abscess (SCA) occurs when injured spinal tissue becomes infected with pus. This can occur due to bacteria, which grows inside the body.

SCA is a rare disease of the spinal cord and the areas in or around it. It can cause permanent damage to the spinal cord. Back injuries, boils on the skin, back surgery or spread of an infection through the bloodstream are risk factors for the disease. There could be other factors such as trauma (a bullet or knife wound, for instance).

The pressure that an abscess places on the spinal cord can cause paralysis or other neurological problems (that is, problems related to the nerves).​

The symptoms of a spinal cord abscess can vary depending on its location and severity. Common symptoms include:

  • Back Pain: Persistent, localized pain in the affected area.
  • Fever and Chills: Indicating an underlying infection.
  • Neurological Deficits: Such as muscle weakness, numbness, or paralysis below the level of the abscess.
  • Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction: Difficulty controlling urination or defecation.
  • Tingling or Numbness: In the legs or arms, depending on the location of the abscess.

Early recognition of symptoms is critical to prevent worsening complications.​

Consult our Infectious Diseases or Neuro Surgery experts if you experience:

  • Severe or worsening back pain.
  • Persistent fever with back pain.
  • Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in any part of the body.
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control.

Prompt evaluation and treatment can help prevent permanent neurological damage.

Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started.​

The diagnosis of a spinal cord abscess typically involves:

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): The preferred imaging method to visualize the abscess and assess its extent.
  • Blood Tests: To detect infection markers and identify the causative organism.
  • Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): May be performed to analyze cerebrospinal fluid, though it carries some risks if pressure in the spinal canal is increased.
  • CT Scan: In cases where MRI is unavailable, to provide detailed images of the spinal cord and surrounding structures.​

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialised clinics and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatment costs and authorise admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.​

Your doctor or nurse will provide specific instructions regarding any prescribed medications. It is essential to follow their guidance carefully. Self-prescribing or altering medication without professional advice can be harmful. Inform your healthcare provider of any past adverse reactions to medications. If you experience symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose, or a severe reaction, contact the Pharmacy Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. 
The contact number is listed in the 'Numbers' section on the hospital's homepage.​
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​The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.