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Early Detection With Gadolinium Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Allen J. Teman, MD

Arch Neurol. 1992;49(7):743-746.

Abstract
• To emphasize the importance of timely diagnosis of spinal epidural abscess, thirteen patients admitted to a single general hospital are presented. In 10 patients, diagnosis was not appreciated at the time of presentation. After treatment, four remained paraparetic and three died. Nine patients had predisposing factors, including seven with infections at sites other than the spinal canal. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant organism. Outcome was equally devastating for the seven patients with acute and the six patients with chronic infections. Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging was the most useful diagnostic test, and we recommend that it be performed promptly in any patient with clinical features suggesting spinal epidural abscess since early surgical drainage and appropriate antibiotics may yield a favorable outcome.

Author Affiliations
From the Department of Neurology, North Shore University Hospital—Cornell University Medical College, Manhasset, NY. Dr Teman is now with the Coral Springs Medical Center, Carol Springs, Fla.

Footnotes
Accepted for publication February 10, 1992.

Reprint requests to 9750 NW 33 St, Suite 207, Coral Springs, FL 33065 (Dr Teman).

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