Use of MRI Scoring for Evaluation of Treatment Outcomes in Spinal Tuberculosis

Abstract

Introduction: The diagnosis of spinal tuberculosis (TB) is often delayed, which may affect treatment outcomes. Guidelines suggest to treat spinal TB for six months however it does not take into account severity of disease (multi-level involvement or presence of paravertebral or psoas abscesses) at presentation. Methodology: We conducted a retrospective study of consecutive patients attending a spinal TB clinic at a large London Hospital. Information on demographics, clinical disease manifestations and radiological findings were recorded at presentation, 6 months and if available at completion of treatment. MRI findings were classified using a standardised MRI scoring system including a. Active osteomyelitis/discitis, b. Bone destruction, c. Collection (paravertebral/psoas/anterior collection), d. dural and intradural abnormalities, e. epidural abnormalities.