Spinal TB risks and treatment - Rajahmundry

t is the most common place for tuberculosis to affect the skeletal system, although it can affect the hips and knees too. The infection spreads from two adjacent vertebrae into the adjoining disc space. If only one vertebra is affected, the disc is normal; however, if two are involved the disc between them collapses, as it is a vascular and cannot receive nutrients. Caseation occurs, with vertebral narrowing and eventually vertebral collapse and spinal damage. A dry soft tissue mass often forms and superinfection is rare.

Risk factors
Endemic tuberculosis.
Poor socio-economic conditions.
HIV infection.

Spinal tuberculosis treatment and management


Medical treatment is the mainstay but surgical intervention may be required.
The possibility of multiple drug-resistant TB should be considered.
Immobilisation of the spine is usually for two or three months.
Surgery is reserved for select cases of progressive deformity or where neurological deficit is not improved by anti-tubercular treatment.
Multidisciplinary approaches to diagnosis and management can improve outcomes for both.