Humberto Morales MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Rebecca Sue Cornelius MD, Abstract Co-Author: Spouse, Stockholder, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

To describe the imaging findings of common and less common pathologies mimicking infectious spondylo-discitis.

We describe imaging findings of common and less common spine pathologies with potential to mimic infectious disease. Sample cases will be used to demonstrate what findings can help to differentiate an infectious process. 

Inflammatory Spondyloarthropathies such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Psoriasis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and SAPHO syndrome; as well as  degenerative disease and malignancy can mimic infectious spondylo-discitis on CT and MRI. Increased T2 signal within the disc might not represent discitis. Evaluation of concomitant increased T1 signal is helpful as this more likely represents disc calcification and/or annular tear. The absence of fluid collection / enhancing soft tissue in the paravertebral / epidural region suggest a process other than infection. Erosion, enhancement and edema-type changes of the endplates are non-specific findings and should be interpreted along with clinical and laboratory findings.  

Morales, H, Cornelius, R, Discitis-Osteomyelitis Mimics: When Should Radiologists Think Beyond Infection?.  Radiological Society of North America 2012 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 25 - November 30, 2012 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2012/12027514.html