Panspinal Epidural Abscess: A Devastating Complication of Group B Streptococcal Bacteremia

BACKGROUND: SEAs are infrequent; however, panspinal infections are even rarer, especially when GBS infection is involved. The cornerstone of treatment is based on early diagnosis and use of targeted antimicrobial therapy; in case of cord compression or neurological compromise, urgent surgical intervention should be pursued. Overall, it is an infrequent condition and therefore requires prospective multicenter studies. Case Presentation. We describe a case who presented with diabetic lower extremity wounds; however, soon the patient developed bowel and bladder incontinence in the setting of back pain, secondary to panspinal epidural abscess. The patient's case is unique in two aspects: firstly, it is panspinal, and secondly, its causative agent is GBS. CONCLUSION: Prompt diagnosis of SEA is critical in the preservation of neurological function. Anyone presenting with fevers, back pain, and neurological changes should have urgent MRI evaluation of the spine.