Pott’s spine, also known as spinal tuberculosis, represents the most common form of skeletal tuberculosis and accounts for nearly half of all osteoarticular cases. It is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection of the vertebral column, most often through hematogenous dissemination from a primary pulmonary focus. The disease predominantly affects young adults, with the thoracic region being most frequently involved. Clinical presentation is insidious and depends on the site, stage, and presence of complications. Patients typically present with back pain, stiffness, deformity, and constitutional symptoms such as fever, weight loss, and malaise. Advanced disease may lead to cold abscess formation, vertebral collapse, kyphotic deformity, and neurological deficits, termed Pott’s paraplegia. Diagnosis is established through radiological evaluation (X-ray, CT, MRI) and microbiological confirmation using GeneXpert or Line Probe Assay. Management includes prolonged antitubercular chemotherapy, rest, nutritional support, and bracing. Surgical intervention is reserved for cases with neurological deterioration, instability, or failed medical therapy. Early recognition and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for preventing deformity, preserving neurological function, and achieving optimal outcomes.

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Tuberculosis of Spine and Pott’s Paraplegia

  • Nikhil Goyal,
  • Kumar Keshav

摘要

Pott’s spine, also known as spinal tuberculosis, represents the most common form of skeletal tuberculosis and accounts for nearly half of all osteoarticular cases. It is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection of the vertebral column, most often through hematogenous dissemination from a primary pulmonary focus. The disease predominantly affects young adults, with the thoracic region being most frequently involved. Clinical presentation is insidious and depends on the site, stage, and presence of complications. Patients typically present with back pain, stiffness, deformity, and constitutional symptoms such as fever, weight loss, and malaise. Advanced disease may lead to cold abscess formation, vertebral collapse, kyphotic deformity, and neurological deficits, termed Pott’s paraplegia. Diagnosis is established through radiological evaluation (X-ray, CT, MRI) and microbiological confirmation using GeneXpert or Line Probe Assay. Management includes prolonged antitubercular chemotherapy, rest, nutritional support, and bracing. Surgical intervention is reserved for cases with neurological deterioration, instability, or failed medical therapy. Early recognition and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for preventing deformity, preserving neurological function, and achieving optimal outcomes.