INTRADURAL EXTRAMEDULLARY TUBERCULOUS SPINAL ABSCESS - A CASE-REPORT

Intradural extramedullary tuberculous spinal abscess is rare and has a poor prognosis if not diagnosed early and treated adequately. We repo rt the case of 13 year-old boy who presented with an 8-month history o f paraplegia. MR imaging demonstrated an intradural extramedullary spi nal abscess in the mid-thoracic region. At operation, an encapsulated abscess was removed completely. The tuberculous nature was confirmed w ith microbiological testing. Postoperative antituberculous chemotherap y resulted in complete recovery. MR imaging can prove very helpful in early diagnosis of this condition, which is particular relevant in cou ntries where tuberculosis is endemic.