Polymicrobial Osteomyelitis of the Odontoid Process with Epidural Abscess: Case Report and Review of Literature

ABSTRACT

Osteomyelitis of the odontoid process is a rare disease and Staphylococcus aureus is the usual causative organism. We present a case caused by a synergistic infection with Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus mirabilis, which has not been reported previously. A high index of suspicion is required for diagnosis, and early institution of broad antimicrobial therapy, including agents active against gram-negative organisms, is mandatory.

KEYWORDS

Odontoid process - osteomyelitis - spinal cord compression - cervical spine abscess - epidural abscess

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