Epidural abscess

Background

• Infection of the epidural space, between the dura mater and bone
• May be intracranial or spinal, with spinal being far more common
• Acquired from contiguous spread (e.g. discitis, otitis media/sinusitis/mastoiditis, direct inoculation (e.g. spinal anaesthesia or neurosurgery), or hematogenous spread
• Risk factors include intravenous drug use, hemodialysis, diabetes mellitus, and older age