An<unk>  is an infection that forms in the epidural space. Specifically, intracranial<unk>  is limited on the inner side by the cranial dura mater and on the outer side by the cranial bone. Spinal<unk>  is limited on the inner side by the spinal dura mater and on the outer side, by the spinal canal. Spinal<unk>  is the more common type of<unk> . Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for approximately 2/3 of the reported cases. Prevalence is greatest between the fifth and seventh decades of life, with a male predominance. If left untreated, intracranial<unk>  may cause headache, fever, and seizures. If left untreated, spinal<unk>  may cause back pain, nerve root pain, and paralysis. Complications of<unk>  include neurological deficits, meningitis, and sepsis. Generally,<unk>  is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment. If treated timely, the prognosis for<unk>  is generally good. Physical examination of patients with<unk>  is usually remarkable for fever, back pain, and generally well appearance, often contributing to misdiagnosis. MRI is the primary imaging study of<unk> , with CT scan as a secondary alternative. A combination of surgical drainage and prolonged systemic antibiotics (6-12 weeks, IV followed by PO) is the mainstay of therapy for either intracranial or spinal<unk> . Due to the importance of preoperative neurologic status, along with the unpredictable progression of neurologic impairment, for the neurological outcome of the patient, surgical therapy varies depending on the location of the<unk> .
Epidural abscess
Subdural empyema
Epidural hematoma
Vertebral osteomyelitis
Spinal cord tumor
Spinal tumor
Spinal disc herniation
Balanitis