Spondylodiscitis in older adults in a tertiary care center

Abstract

Spondylodiscitis (SD) is a bacterial infection that affects the vertebral body and the intervertebral disc. It may also be called vertebral discitis or osteomyelitis, depending on the location of the infection. ED is often diagnosed late due to socioeconomic factors and limited access to medical care, but an increase in cases has been seen due to better diagnostic methods. It is classified as primary, postoperative and by contiguity according to its pathophysiological mechanism. Staphylococcus aureus is the bacteria most commonly associated with these infections. Symptoms can vary depending on location, from lower back pain to difficulty swallowing. Treatment usually includes the use of systemic antibiotics, although in some cases surgery is required. Below is a case series of 8 patients with ED in a tertiary hospital in Rosario.