Spinal epidural abscess and paralytic mechanisms.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The incidence of spinal epidural abscess is increasing, and the understanding of the pathophysiology is evolving. Better understanding of the pathophysiology, specifically the role of ischemia, warrants a change in therapy.

RECENT FINDINGS: Paralysis in spinal epidural abscess may be the result of spinal cord compression, spinal cord arterial and/or venous ischemia and thrombophlebitis or a combination of these.

SUMMARY: Recent evidence indicates the following areas of investigation and management can improve outcome in spinal epidural abscess: minimally invasive surgery early versus medical management when there are no significant neurological deficits, neuroradiologic arterial evaluation with therapies directed at vascular ischemia and thrombosis, and aggressive rehabilitation.