An unusual appearance of discitis due to gas-forming Escherichia coli with associated pneumocephalus.

Abstract

Case report. To report on an unusual case of isolated septic discitis, meningitis, pneumocephalus, and solid organ abscesses associated with urosepsis from gas-producing Escherichia coli. Isolated septic discitis, or disc infection without involvement of adjacent vertebrae, following E. coli urosepsis is an unusual finding in the adult population and to our knowledge has not been reported previously. The clinical manifestations and imaging findings of a patient with a history of back pain are described. The significance of the reported case is discussed. Laboratory finding and imaging studies revealed a Gram-negative sepsis associated with meningitis, discitis, pneumocephalus, and solid organ abscesses. Due to widespread involvement of multiple organs, the infection remained refractory to treatment, and the patient died. Our report adds to the literature by describing an unusual appearance of spine infection in an adult. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of a systematic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of low back pain.