Table 1

Risk Factors Increasing Suspicion for VO/SEA

Diabetes (the most common risk factor)
Any risk factor for bacteremia (eg, IV drug use or an indwelling vascular device)
Immunosuppression
Malignancy
Cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease, or alcohol use
HIV or AIDS
Rheumatoid arthritis
History of spinal trauma or fracture
Recent spinal procedure
Other foci of infection

Note: Most patients with VO have at least one risk factor present. If no risk factors are present, consider an alternative diagnosis.

From: Vertebral Osteomyelitis, Discitis, and Spinal Epidural Abscess in Adults

Cover of Vertebral Osteomyelitis, Discitis, and Spinal Epidural Abscess in Adults
Vertebral Osteomyelitis, Discitis, and Spinal Epidural Abscess in Adults [Internet].
Chenoweth CE, Bassin BS, Mack MR, et al.
Ann Arbor (MI): Michigan Medicine University of Michigan; 2018 Dec.
© Regents of the University of Michigan.

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