Abstract
Spinal infection is rare in children, especially in young infants. The most common
etiology is bacteria; Staphylococcus aureus in particular. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is another rare cause. We report an unusual dorsal spinal abscess with spinal cord
compression in a 20-month-old infant. The presenting symptoms were weakness in the
inferior limbs, gait disturbance and dorsal deformation for 3 mo. Neurological examination
showed a spastic paraparesis and hypoesthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a
destruction of fourth vertebral body with anterior extension to posterior mediastinum
and spinal cord compression. The patient underwent an emergency neurosurgical decompression
by minimal posterior approach laminectomy and removal of tuberculosis granuloma. Histological
examination confirms M. tuberculosis. After 9 mo of antituberculosis treatment, the girl could walk without assistance.
We conclude that spinal tuberculosis should be considered in cases of children and
infants with cord-compression. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical for
maximizing a functional recovery.
Keywords
Infant - tuberculosis - cord compression - MRI - surgery
