Disc space infections in children.

Intractable low back pain in children is often due to disc space infections. The clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment of four cases are presented. Symptoms often occur well before radiographic findings are evident. The diagnosis can only be made by a high degree of suspicion and repeated X-rays. Antecedent causes, such as urinary infection or intravenous administration of narcotics were lacking in this group. Fever or a preceding febrile illness was often, but not invariably, present. Percutaneous biopsies were not usually helpful. Myelography in each instance was normal. Bed rest reduced but did not alleviate the back pain. The institution of appropriate antibiotic therapy resulted in a prompt diminution of pain.