Noncontiguous dual segment thoracic brucellosis with neurological deficit.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Brucellosis can affect the musculoskeletal system, and bony involvement ranges from 2% to 70% in the literature. Spinal brucellosis is generally localized to the sacroiliac region; thoracic brucellosis is rarely seen.

PURPOSE: To present a case with noncontiguous multilevel thoracic brucellosis with spinal cord compression.

STUDY

DESIGN

Case report.

METHODS

The patient underwent aggressive surgical debridement (posterior decompression, fusion and stabilization, and two noncontiguous level anterior corpectomy and fusion procedures with titanium mesh cages).

RESULTS

At the latest follow-up of 2 years, her clinical, radiological, and laboratory examination showed no recurrence of infection. The neurological examination was completely normal.

CONCLUSION

Early aggressive debridement and stabilization together with medical treatment, especially in the elderly and immunocompromised patients, would be the most beneficial treatment for eradication of pathology.