A rare case as different cause of retropharyngeal and spinal epidural abscess: spondylodiscitis

Abstract

Background: Retropharyngeal abscess (RPA) is a life-threatening, dangerous condition and uncommon in adults. The coexistence of RPA, cervical spinal epidural abscess (CSEA), and spondylodiscitis is extremely rare. Case presentation: We present a case with a retropharyngeal and epidural abscess caused by spondylodiscitis. A 61-year-old man was referred to our clinic with the complaints of sore throat, limitation in neck range of motion, numbness, and weakness in the left arm and the left ear for one month. The airway was not obstructed. Neurological deficits were detected in his left arm. Cervical computed tomography revealed a 50 x 30 x 15 mm retropharyngeal abscess. Cervical magnetic resonance imaging showed abscess, C5-6 spondylodiscitis and epidural abscess, and myelopathic signal changes in the C3-7 spinal cord. The abscess was drained, and C5-6 discectomy was performed. The patient was discharged with cervical collar and antibiotics. Conclusions: Multidisciplinary approach that consists of otolaryngologist, neurosurgeon, and infectious disease specialist is needed to avoid complications and any delay.