Epidural abscess differential diagnosis: Difference between revisions
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===Spinal Epidural Abscess=== | ===Spinal Epidural Abscess=== | ||
At the time of presentation, the diagnosis of spinal epidural abscess is only suspected in 40% of the cases. This is due to the fact that there are several other conditions, more common than this type of abscess, presenting with similar signs and symptoms. | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
Revision as of 02:32, 21 March 2014
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: João André Alves Silva, M.D. [2]
Overview
An epidural abscess is a rare suppurative infection of the central nervous system, a collection of pus localised in the epidural space lying outside the dura mater, which accounts for less than 2% of focal CNS infections. [1] It may occur in two different places: intracranially or in the spinal canal. The diagnosis of epidural abscess, due to the unspecific clinical symptoms, is rarely a quick diagnosis. It is suspected based on clinical findings, along with laboratory data and imaging tests, however it can only be confirmed by surgical drainage. According to the location of the abscess, different conditions must be considered in the differential diagnosis.
Differential Diagnosis
Intracranial Epidural Abscess
An intracranial epidural abscess can replicate the signs and symptoms of any intracranial mass lesion. It may be presented by headache, vomiting, fever, altered mental status, seizures, cranial nerve abnormalities and paresis. However, these signs may not be present initially, and may be shared by other conditions, which increases the complexity of the differential diagnosis. [2] Therefore, the differential diagnosis includes:
- Primary parenchymal tumor -
- Metastatic tumor -
- Meningioma -
- Hematoma -
- Subdural empyema -
- Brain abscess -
- Chronic meningitis -
- Tuberculous meningitis -
- Cranial arteritis -
Spinal Epidural Abscess
At the time of presentation, the diagnosis of spinal epidural abscess is only suspected in 40% of the cases. This is due to the fact that there are several other conditions, more common than this type of abscess, presenting with similar signs and symptoms.
References
- ↑ Longo, Dan L. (Dan Louis) (2012). Harrison's principles of internal medici. New York: McGraw-Hill. ISBN 978-0-07-174889-6.
- ↑ Fountas KN, Duwayri Y, Kapsalaki E, Dimopoulos VG, Johnston KW, Peppard SB; et al. (2004). "Epidural intracranial abscess as a complication of frontal sinusitis: case report and review of the literature". South Med J. 97 (3): 279–82, quiz 283. PMID 15043336.