Erythrocyte sedimentation rate as a possible indicator of early disc space infection.

Abstract

Clinical, radiographic and laboratory changes are defined in the syndrome of disc space inflammation, and a series of 25 patients is summarized. In the majority inflammation occurred following lumbar discectomy. Forty-nine routine lumbar discectomy patients are assessed acutely and chronically. Erythrocyte sedimentation rates (ESR) were found to be elevated in the post-discectomy patients, but dropped toward normal. In patients with disc space inflammation, the ESR remained high or increased with time. It is felt that by obtaining ESR in the post-discectomy patient, the clinician might be alterted to potential disc space inflammation and stimulate early diagnosis and treatment.