Spondylodiscitis is a combination of discitis and spondylitis. It is very rare to have an isolated discitis without associated vertebral osteomyelitis. It is relatively uncommon in developed nations. However, this disease can lead to severe disability and even death if left untreated. Antibiotics is the mainstay of treatment but cases with neurological compromise would need prompt surgical decompression and stabilisation. Recovery in serious cases is often a lengthy process, requiring long hospital stay. Our unit conducted a review as it is noted spondylodiscitis is becoming more common in elderly and immunocompromised groups. Retrospective study of spondylodiscitis presented to our unit over the last three years is conducted. Medical records and charts are reviewed, with a focus on disease presentation, risk factors, causative organisms and when surgery becomes necessary.Introduction
Patients and methods