Sonographic diagnosis of spondylodiscitis in a young child

Pediatr Radiol. 2024 May;54(6):1049-1052. doi: 10.1007/s00247-024-05920-w. Epub 2024 Apr 9.

Abstract

Sonographic diagnosis of spondylodiscitis is described in a 21-month-old girl who presented with altered gait. Spondylodiscitis, also referred to as discitis-osteomyelitis, is an infection of the intervertebral disc and adjacent vertebrae. The imaging modality of choice is spinal magnetic resonance imaging. Our case is the first description in the English language of the sonographic diagnosis of spondylodiscitis. Pediatric radiologists and sonographers should be acquainted with its features, for both incidental and intentional diagnosis.

Keywords: Children; Diagnostic imaging; Infections; Spine; Spondylodiscitis; Ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Discitis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Lumbar Vertebrae / diagnostic imaging
  • Ultrasonography* / methods