Single-stage decompression of C1–D9 anterior epidural abscess by a gas-producing enteric pathogen

Abstract

Multilevel pyogenic spinal epidural abscess is a rare presentation, and there are only a few documented cases. This is a case report of a cervicothoracic epidural abscess (C1–D9) presenting with sepsis and neurological impairment due to a gas-producing enteric organism that was managed by surgical decompression. The abscess was drained in a single-stage multilevel procedure. The patient recovered gradually in the postoperative period clinically and neurologically and is on follow-up for two years. The peculiarity of this case is the absence of any vertebral or disc involvement in the presence of such an extensive anterior epidural abscess.