Identifying serious causes of back pain: cancer, infection, fracture

Cleve Clin J Med. 2008 Aug;75(8):557-66. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.75.8.557.

Abstract

Most patients with back pain have a benign condition, but tumors, infections, and fractures must be considered during an initial evaluation because overlooking them can have serious consequences. This article discusses the presentation and diagnostic strategies of these serious causes of back pain.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Back Pain / diagnostic imaging
  • Back Pain / etiology*
  • Blood Sedimentation
  • C-Reactive Protein / metabolism
  • Fractures, Bone / complications
  • Fractures, Bone / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Infections / complications
  • Infections / diagnosis*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neoplasms / complications
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Radiography
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • C-Reactive Protein