Karen Buch MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Kira Melamud MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jean Paul Colon-Pons MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Bindu Setty MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

1. To describe the pathogenesis and patterns of dissemination of commonly encountered infectious agents involving the osseous and soft tissues of the spine. 2. To review the capabilities of multiple available imaging techniques, with emphasis on MR imaging. 3. To describe key imaging features of early to late manifestations of spondylodiscitis and complications based on infectious agent. 4. To review soft tissue complications of spondylodiscitis, as well as imaging features of primary soft tissue infections of the spine.  

1. Introduction: discussion of modes of dissemination of most common typical and atypical infectious pathogens encountered in an urban setting, with emphasis on intravenous drug users. 2. Review of advantages and disadvantages of available imaging modalities in spinal imaging, with emphasis on optimizing MR imaging protocols in the setting on infectious workup. 3. Pictorial review of typical and atypical pathogens that cause spinal infections, with emphasis on classic and unusual imaging features. 4. Discussion of differential diagnoses and common imaging pitfalls in recognition of early spinal infections. 5. Conclusion: An awareness of typical and atypical imaging manifestations of spinal infections is crucial in preventing diagnostic delay and avoiding unnecessary procedures.  

http://abstract.rsna.org/uploads/2014/14015869/14015869_xo8q.pdf

Buch, K, Melamud, K, Colon-Pons, J, Setty, B, Back Pain from an Urban Perspective: The Many Faces of Spinal Infections.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14015869.html