Spontaneous methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus epidural abscess in pregnancy

Brendan D. Connealy, Todd R. Lovgren, Paul G. Tomich, Carl V. Smith, Teresa G. Berg

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Epidural abscess is a rare complication of regional anesthesia, and spontaneous formation is even more uncommon. Diabetes mellitus, concomitant infection, intravenous drug use, and immune suppression are risk factors for spontaneous epidural abscess. Case: A 29-year-old white woman presented at 28 weeks of estimated gestational age reporting an intermittent headache. She had Horner syndrome and was hospitalized. A cervicothoracic epidural abscess was diagnosed. Surgical decompression and parenteral antibiotics resulted in complete resolution of neurologic symptoms. Cultures were positive for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureous. Conclusion: Spontaneous epidural abscess is a rare condition and diagnosis is often delayed. The finding of Horner syndrome led to imaging of the cervical spine and diagnosis of epidural abscess. Early intervention resulted in resolution of neurologic symptoms and a successful pregnancy outcome.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)498-501
Number of pages4
JournalObstetrics and gynecology
Volume116
Issue number2 PART 2
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2010
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Spontaneous methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus epidural abscess in pregnancy'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this