Spondylodiscitis: A Comprehensive Review of Diagnostic Challenges, Microbial Etiology, and Management Strategies
摘要
Spondylodiscitis, an infection of the vertebral body and adjacent intervertebral space, presents diagnostic and management challenges due to its varied etiology, risk factors, and clinical manifestations. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, microbiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of spondylodiscitis. Epidemiologically, its incidence is rising, primarily affecting elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Hematogenous spread, direct inoculation, and contiguous spread are the main routes of bacterial entry into the spine. Staphylococcus aureus remains the predominant causative agent, while Mycobacterium tuberculosis requires special consideration in endemic regions. Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory studies (including acute-phase reactants and blood cultures), and imaging modalities, with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) being the gold standard. Treatment encompasses antimicrobial therapy and, in select cases, surgical intervention. The choice of antibiotics depends on microbial etiology and patient factors, while surgery aims to debulk infected tissue and restore spinal stability. The optimal approach and timing of surgery remain debated. This review provides a comprehensive overview to aid clinicians in diagnosing and managing spondylodiscitis effectively.