clinical features

Last reviewed 01/2018

The abscess may be at any level but is most commonly, thoracic. The cord is damaged either directly from the compressive effects of the lesion or secondary to a thrombophlebitis and venous infarction.

The presentation resembles a rapidly progressive extradural tumour or haematoma with bilateral leg weakness, a sensory level, and urinary retention. The abscess is distinguished by:

• very severe pain over the site
• toxaemia - tachycardia, pyrexia, malaise
• stiffened neck and spinal column with marked resistance to flexion