Type:
Educational Exhibit
Keywords:
MR, Bones, Neuroradiology spine, Musculoskeletal bone, Musculoskeletal spine, CT, Infection
Authors:
J. Kavanagh, R. Dunne, J. Keane, A. M. Mc Laughlin; Dublin/IE
DOI:
10.1594/ecr2011/C-1917
Conclusion
The total number of cases of TB is rising globally due to rising population in developed countries.
Although a post primary manifestation,
over half the cases of TB Spondyltis present with no active pulmonary disease.
For a clinician in an area of low incidence it can be difficult to diagnose due to its insidious nature and low index of suspicion.
Radiologists play a vital role in disease assessment and diagnosis.
Subtle plain film findings on routine exams in the right clinical scenario can make the diagnosis.
CT and MRI have a synergistic role in TB Spondylitis in evaluation of the bony and soft tissue spread respectively.
This can lead to prompt medical or surgical intervention to prevent potentially serious neurological sequelae.