What is it?
Infection of vertebrae, discs or the epidural space can damage bone or compress neural structures. Fever may be absent.
Symptoms and important signs
Persistent severe spinal pain, sometimes fever, weakness or sensory changes.
How is it assessed?
Urgent examination, blood tests, cultures and appropriate MRI.
Care and treatment options
Prompt specialist treatment with antibiotics; drainage, decompression or stabilisation may be needed.
When to seek help
Weakness, bladder dysfunction or rapidly worsening pain requires emergency hospital assessment.