Thrush Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Thrush, including details on oral, vaginal, symptoms, prevention, treatment, infection.

Candida spondylodiscitis and epidural abscess: management with shorter courses of anti-fungal therapy in combination with surgical debridement.

Chia SL, Tan BH, Tan CT, Tan SB

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore. chia_shi_lu@yahoo.com

Epidural abscess associated with candidal spondylodiscitis is rarely seen, particularly when it involves the cervical and thoracic spine. We report two such cases that were successfully managed with early surgical debridement, as well as medical therapy with intravenous amphotericin followed by oral fluconazole. The literature related to candidal spinal infection is reviewed, and a rational approach to the management of this uncommon condition is proposed. A good outcome may generally be expected with early diagnosis as well as appropriate surgical and pharmacological treatment. Oral fluconazole appears to be useful in the management of candida spondylodiscitis complicated by epidural abscess formation. Treatment until a normal ESR is attained is ideal, and this may be as short as 3 months when surgical drainage has been adequately performed.

Published 27 June 2005 in J Infect, 51(1): 17-23.
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