Tuberculosis (TB) is commonly known as a lung infection, but it can affect other parts of the body too — including the spine. Spinal TB, also known as Pott’s disease, is a serious form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that targets the vertebrae, potentially causing long-term damage if not treated early.
Dr. Arun Rajeswaran, a renowned spine surgeon in the UAE, explains that early diagnosis and proper treatment of spinal TB can prevent complications like spinal deformity, nerve damage, and paralysis.
What is Spinal TB?
Spinal TB is a form of osteoarticular tuberculosis where the infection affects the vertebrae (bones of the spine) and intervertebral discs. It most commonly involves the thoracic and lumbar spine and can spread silently before symptoms appear.
Unlike pulmonary TB, which is contagious and spreads through coughing or sneezing, spinal TB is not transmitted person-to-person. It usually results from TB bacteria spreading from the lungs or lymph nodes to the spine via the bloodstream.
Common Symptoms of Spinal TB
The symptoms of spinal TB often develop slowly and can be misdiagnosed as common back issues. According to Dr. Arun Rajeswaran, key signs include:
-
Chronic back pain – unrelieved by rest or medications
-
Fever and night sweats
-
Unexplained weight loss
-
Fatigue and malaise
-
Stiffness in the spine
-
Difficulty in movement or walking
-
Neurological symptoms like tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs if spinal nerves are compressed
-
Visible spinal deformity in advanced stages (kyphosis or hunchback)
If left untreated, the infection can form an abscess and press on the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or severe nerve damage.
Diagnosis of Spinal TB
Early detection is critical to avoid irreversible complications. Dr. Arun Rajeswaran uses a combination of:
-
MRI and CT scans – to detect bone destruction, abscesses, or spinal cord compression
-
X-rays – to observe vertebral damage
-
Blood tests – including ESR, CRP, and TB gold test
-
Tissue biopsy or aspiration – to confirm the presence of TB bacteria
In some cases, spinal fluid analysis may be needed if there are neurological signs.
Treatment of Spinal TB
Most cases of spinal TB can be treated without surgery, especially if diagnosed early. The main treatment approach includes:
1. Medical Therapy (ATT - Anti-Tubercular Therapy)
-
A long course (6 to 12 months) of TB antibiotics like isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol.
-
Strict adherence to the full treatment course is essential to prevent recurrence or drug resistance.
2. Bracing and Rest
-
Temporary use of spinal braces to immobilize and support the spine
-
Bed rest in the initial phases, followed by gradual mobilization
3. Surgical Intervention
In advanced cases with spinal instability, neurological symptoms, or large abscesses, surgery may be required. Dr. Arun Rajeswaran specializes in:
-
Decompression surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord
-
Spinal fusion to stabilize the spine using rods and screws
-
Abscess drainage
Potential Complications of Untreated Spinal TB
If not treated in time, spinal TB can lead to serious and irreversible outcomes:
-
Spinal deformity (kyphosis)
-
Paraplegia (lower body paralysis)
-
Chronic pain and stiffness
-
Spinal cord compression
-
Persistent abscesses or sinus tracts
Dr. Arun emphasizes that early diagnosis and strict adherence to medical therapy can prevent these complications.
When to Consult a Spine Specialist?
If you or a loved one has chronic back pain, night sweats, weight loss, or neurological issues, it's essential to consult a spine expert. Spinal TB is treatable, but timing matters.
Dr. Arun Rajeswaran brings years of experience in managing complex spinal infections and offers a holistic approach combining accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and surgical expertise when needed.
Book a Consultation with Dr. Arun Rajeswaran
Don’t ignore persistent back pain. It could be more than just a muscle strain. Get an expert opinion from one of the UAE’s top spine surgeons.
Comments
0 comment