How does spondylodiscitis form?

The spine is susceptible to infection through hematogenous spread, where bacteria from other parts of the body, such as the urinary or respiratory tract, enter the bloodstream and predominantly target the spine. This vulnerability arises from the spine’s ample blood supply and the slowing of blood flow at the vertebral end plates due to hairpin turns in the vessels. This slowed flow allows bacteria to accumulate, leading to bone infiltration and the development of osteomyelitis near the disc. Gradually, the infection progresses into the disc space, resulting in spondylodiscitis. While tuberculosis (TB) is the most common cause, other bacteria can also play a role in these infections.

#SpineDRx #BringingBackHealth #HematogenousSpread #SpineInfection #VertebralEndPlates #Osteomyelitis #Spondylodiscitis #Tuberculosis #BoneHealth #InfectiousDiseases