International Clinical and Medical Case Reports Journal (ISSN: 2832-5788) | Volume 5, Issue 4 | Research Article | Open Access
Qasim Zia*
Altaf Hussain1, Qasim Zia2*, Muhammad Usama Khalid2, Muhammad Salman Khan2, Muhammad Zaki Ud Din2, Hajra Azmat3, Ayesha Abbas4, Tanveer Rasool5, Uzain Sardar6
1DHQ Hospital Bhakkar
2Multan Medical & Dental College, Multan
3M.Islam Medical & Dental College, Gujranwala
4Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur
5Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore
6Buch International Hospital, Multan
Fulltext PDFBackground: Vertebral osteomyelitis and psoas abscess are uncommon but potentially life-threatening infections that frequently present with vague and non-specific symptoms, particularly in the emergency department (ED). Their clinical overlap and insidious onset often lead to delayed diagnosis and increased morbidity.
Objective: To comprehensively review the clinical spectrum of vertebral osteomyelitis and psoas abscess, focusing on epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies, with particular emphasis on implications for emergency medicine.
Methods: A narrative review of current literature was conducted, synthesizing evidence from peer-reviewed studies, clinical guidelines, and case series addressing vertebral osteomyelitis and psoas abscess.
Results: Both conditions share overlapping risk factors, microbiology, and clinical features. Back pain remains the most common presenting complaint, while classical signs such as fever and leukocytosis may be absent. MRI remains the diagnostic modality of choice. Early initiation of antimicrobial therapy and timely surgical or interventional management significantly improve outcomes.
Conclusion: Vertebral osteomyelitis and psoas abscess should be considered part of a clinical continuum. Early recognition in the ED requires a high index of suspicion, particularly in high-risk patients with persistent or atypical back pain. Prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are essential to reduce morbidity and mortality.
Altaf Hussain, Qasim Zia, Muhammad Usama Khalid, Muhammad Salman Khan, Muhammad Zaki Ud Din, Hajra Azmat, Ayesha Abbas, Tanveer Rasool, Uzain Sardar. Vertebral Osteomyelitis and Psoas Abscess: A Clinical Spectrum. Int Clinc Med Case Rep Jour. 2026;5(4):1-8.