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Li C, Xiao NS, Ke BY, Li S, Lin Y. Application of Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing in Suspected Spinal Infectious Diseases. World Neurosurg 2024; 185:e542-e548. [PMID: 38401756 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.02.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the clinical efficacy of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in diagnosing and treating suspected spinal infectious diseases. METHODS Between October 2022 to December 2023, a retrospective analysis was performed on patient records within the Department of Spinal Surgery at Guilin People's Hospital. The analysis included comprehensive data on patients with presumed spinal infectious diseases, incorporating results from mNGS tests conducted externally, conventional pathogen detection results, laboratory examination results, and imaging findings. The study aimed to assess the applicability of mNGS in the context of suspected spinal infectious lesions. RESULTS Twenty-seven patients were included in the final analysis. Pathogenic microorganisms were identified in 23 cases. The included cases encompassed 1 case of tuberculous spondylitis, 1 case of fungal infection, 3 cases of Brucella spondylitis, 3 cases of viral infection, 9 cases of bacterial infection, and 6 cases of mixed infections. Pathogenic microorganisms remained elusive in 4 cases. The application of the mNGS method demonstrated a significantly elevated positive detection rate compared to conventional methods (85.19% vs. 48.15%, P < 0.05). Moreover, the mNGS method detected a greater variety of pathogen species than traditional methods (Z = 10.69, P < 0.05). Additionally, the mNGS method exhibited a shorter detection time. CONCLUSIONS mNGS demonstrated significantly higher detection rates for bacterial, fungal, viral, and mixed infections in cases of suspected spinal infectious diseases. The clinical implementation of mNGS could further enhance the efficiency of diagnosing and treating suspected spinal infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Nian-Su Xiao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Bao-Yi Ke
- Department of Orthopaedics, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Sen Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Yang Lin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Guilin People's Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi Province, China.
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Li L, Zhang BH, Cao JF, Zhang LJ, Guo LL. Thoracic spine infection caused by Pseudomonas fluorescens: A case report and review of literature. World J Clin Cases 2024; 12:2099-2108. [PMID: 38680271 PMCID: PMC11045498 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i12.2099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical incidence of spinal infection is gradually increasing, and its onset is insidious, easily leading to missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis, which may lead to serious complications such as nervous system dysfunction, spinal instability and/or deformity, and cause a huge burden on society and families. Early identification of the causative agent and precision medicine will greatly reduce the suffering of patients. At present, the main pathogenic bacteria that cause spinal infection are Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus, Pneumococcus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella. There are no reports of spinal infection caused by Pseudomonas fluorescens. CASE SUMMARY We report a 32-year-old female patient with spinal infection. She presented with flank pain, initially thought to be bone metastases or bone tuberculosis, and had a family background of tumors. Her clinical features and changes in imaging and laboratory tests led to the suspicion of thoracic spine infection. Histopathology of the lesion showed inflammation, tissue culture of the lesion was negative several times, and the possible pathogen - Pseudomonas fluorescens was found after gene sequencing of the lesion. The patient recovered completely after a full course of antibiotic treatment. CONCLUSION This report increases the range of pathogens involved in spinal infections, highlights the unique advantages of gene sequencing technology in difficult-to-diagnose diseases, and validates conservative treatment with a full course of antibiotics for spinal infections without complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo 255000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Bao-Hua Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo 255000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jin-Feng Cao
- Department of Medical Imaging, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo 255000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Li-Jin Zhang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo 255000, Shandong Province, China
| | - Ling-Ling Guo
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zibo Central Hospital, Zibo 255000, Shandong Province, China
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Meidinger P, Kéchichian A, Pinsault N. A Model of Triage of Serious Spinal Pathologies and Therapeutic Options Based on a Delphi Study. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1283. [PMID: 37512094 PMCID: PMC10383224 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59071283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The relevance of red flags in serious spinal pathology (SSP) has evolved throughout the last years. Recently, new considerations have been proposed to expand the consideration of red flags. The purpose of this study was to determine, approve and test a model for the triage and management process of SSPs based on the latest data available in the literature. Materials and Methods: The SSP model was initially built on the basis of a literature review. The model was further determined and approved by an expert panel using a Delphi process. Finally, clinical scenarios were used to test the applicability of the model. Results: After three rounds of the Delphi process, panellists reached a consensus on a final version of the model. The use of clinical scenarios by experts brought about reflexive elements both for the determined model and for the SSPs depicted in the clinical cases. Conclusions: The validation of the model and its implementation in the clinical field could help assess the skills of first-line practitioners managing spinal pain patients. To this end, the development of additional clinical scenarios fitting the determined model should be further considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Meidinger
- TIMC-IMAG UMR CNRS 5525, ThEMAS Team, Université Grenoble Alpes, Domaine de la Merci, 5 Avenue du Grand Sablon, 38700 La Tronche, France
| | - Amélie Kéchichian
- TIMC-IMAG UMR CNRS 5525, ThEMAS Team, Université Grenoble Alpes, Domaine de la Merci, 5 Avenue du Grand Sablon, 38700 La Tronche, France
| | - Nicolas Pinsault
- TIMC-IMAG UMR CNRS 5525, ThEMAS Team, Université Grenoble Alpes, Domaine de la Merci, 5 Avenue du Grand Sablon, 38700 La Tronche, France
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Veljanoski D, Tonna I, Barlas R, Abdel-Fattah AR, Almoosawy SA, Bhatt P. Spinal infections in the north-east of Scotland: a retrospective analysis. Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2023; 105:428-433. [PMID: 35904356 PMCID: PMC10149230 DOI: 10.1308/rcsann.2022.0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinal infection (SI) is uncommon and patients present with varied clinical features. In this review, the presentation, investigation, treatment and outcome of patients with SI in the north-east of Scotland were assessed. METHODS Electronic medical records of adult patients with SI hospitalised at a health board in the north-east of Scotland between 2014 and 2018 were analysed retrospectively. Collected variables included demographics, presenting clinical features, risk factors, comorbidities, admission blood results, microbiological investigations, imaging, treatment and outcomes. RESULTS Seventy-two patients were included. Mean age (±sd) was 63.3 years (±14.5). The lumbar spine was the most commonly involved region (51.4%). Back pain (84.7%), altered mobility (33.3%) and fever (29.2%) were the most frequent presenting features. Thoracic spine involvement (p = 0.041), urinary symptoms (p = 0.033), cauda equina syndrome (CES) (p = 0.027) and limb weakness (p = 0.026) were associated with poorer outcome. A better outcome was associated with back pain at presentation (p = 0.03) and underlying malignancy (p = 0.045). Diabetes (15.3%), recent falls (15.3%) and immunosuppression (12.5%) were common. A likely causative organism was found in 54 patients (75.0%) and Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 41.7% of patients. Penicillins were used in 56.3% of patients and 20.8% underwent surgery. Outcomes were full recovery (38.2%), residual symptoms or neurological deficits (50.0%), paraplegia (4.4%) and death (7.4%). CONCLUSIONS Poorer outcomes occurred in patients with thoracic disease, limb weakness, urinary symptoms or CES, whereas better outcomes were associated with the presence of back pain on presentation and malignancy. This analysis highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of SI, alerting clinicians to key factors associated with prognosis.
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Wang G, Long J, Zhuang Y, Leng X, Zhang Y, Liu L, Fu J, Chen Y, Li C, Zhou Y, Huang B, Feng C. Application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in the detection of pathogens in spinal infections. Spine J 2023; 23:859-867. [PMID: 36773890 DOI: 10.1016/j.spinee.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND CONTEXT The precise diagnosis and treatment of spinal infections (SI) remains challenging for spine surgeons. Identifying the pathogens of SI through metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) may be a key approach to addressing this challenge. PURPOSE To evaluate the accuracy and applicability of mNGS in determining the etiology of SI. STUDY DESIGN Diagnostic test study. PATIENT SAMPLE Twenty-five patients who had a clinical suspicion of SI and underwent mNGS testing. OUTCOME MEASURES The specificity, sensitivity, and time cost of mNGS and bacterial culture were compared. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the numeric rating scale (NRS) score, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score. Demographic data and laboratory results (blood cell count (WBC), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), neutrophil percentage (NEUT%), and C-reactive protein level (CRP) were also evaluated. METHODS In this retrospective study, samples were obtained from 25 eligible patients via surgery or CT-guided puncture and subjected to histopathological examination, bacterial culture, and mNGS. The sensitivity and specificity of the bacterial cultures and mNGS were calculated with respect to the histopathological results as a reference. Postoperative antibiotics or antituberculosis drugs were administered on the basis of mNGS results, combined with clinical manifestations, imaging examination, and histopathology. The changes of clinical outcomes and laboratory results after treatment were observed. RESULTS Of the 25 patients, 21 had a positive pathology, of which 10 showed a tuberculous pathology, and the remaining 11 showed a nontuberculous inflammatory pathology. The sensitivity of mNGS was higher than that of the bacterial culture. However, the difference in specificity between bacterial culture and mNGS was not significant. Moreover, the time needed to perform mNGS was significantly lower than that of bacterial culture and pathology. All patients were followed up for more than three months, and CRP and NEUT% significantly decreased by three months after treatment. There was no significant difference in WBC and ESR. The ODI, NRS and JOA scores were significantly improved after treatment. CONCLUSION Metagenomic next-generation sequencing technology can play an important role in the detection of pathogens in SI and should be further investigated and applied in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanzhong Wang
- Department of Orthopedics Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Gaotanyan St No.30, Chongqing 400038, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang Long
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Zhuang
- Department of Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, 28 Guiyi St Yunyan District, Guiyang 550004, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Leng
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaqing Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Libangxi Liu
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Fu
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Changqing Li
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Huang
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China
| | - Chencheng Feng
- Department of Orthopedics Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, 183 Xinqiao Main St Shapingba, Chongqing 400037, People's Republic of China.
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Smith A, Kumar V, Cooley J, Ammendolia C, Lee J, Hogg-Johnson S, Mior S. Adherence to spinal imaging guidelines and utilization of lumbar spine diagnostic imaging for low back pain at a Canadian Chiropractic College: a historical clinical cohort study. Chiropr Man Therap 2022; 30:39. [PMID: 36114583 PMCID: PMC9479444 DOI: 10.1186/s12998-022-00447-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diagnostic imaging is useful for assessing low back pain (LBP) when a clinician suspects a specific underlying pathology. Evidence-based imaging guidelines assist clinicians in appropriately determining the need for imaging when assessing LBP. A previous study reported high adherence to three clinical guidelines, with utilization rate of 12.3% in imaging of LBP patients attending a chiropractic teaching clinic. A new imaging guideline for spinal disorders has been published and used in teaching. Thus, the aims of our study were to assess the adherence to the new guideline and X-ray utilization in new episodes of LBP. Methods We conducted a historical clinical cohort study using patient electronic health record audits at seven teaching clinics over a period of 20 months. Records of patients who were at least 18 years of age, presented with a new onset of LBP, and consented to data collection were included. Abstracted data included patient demographics, the number and type of red flags, and the decision to image. Rate of guideline adherence (proportion of those not recommended for imaging, given no red flags) and rate of image utilization were descriptively analyzed. Results We included 498 patients in this study. At least 81% of included patients had one or more red flags reported. The most commonly reported individual red flag was age ≥ 50 (43.8%) followed by pain at rest (15.7%). In those referred for imaging, age ≥ 50 (93.3%) was the most frequently reported red flag. No red flag(s) were identified in 93 patient records, and none were referred for imaging of their LBP, yielding an adherence rate of 100% (95% CI 96, 100%). A total of 17 of 498 patients were recommended for imaging for their low back pain, resulting in an imaging utilization rate of 3.4% (95% CI 1.8, 5.0%). Conclusion The imaging utilization rate was 3.4%, lower than 12.3% previously reported at a chiropractic teaching clinic. None without red flags were referred for imaging, yielding a 100%, adherence rate to current LBP imaging guidelines. Future research should consider currency of guideline, accuracy of red flags and factors influencing clinicians’ decision, when assessing imaging adherence rates.
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Selfe J, Mbada C, Kaka B, Odole A, Ashbrook J, Yusuf M, Dobbin N, Lee D, Fatoye F. Red flags for spinal pain in patients diagnosed with spinal infection in Nigeria: A 10-year medical records review. Musculoskelet Sci Pract 2022; 60:102571. [PMID: 35537376 DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal infection is a diagnostic challenge, the personal and economic consequences of misdiagnosis can be significant resulting in paralysis and instability of the spine and can ultimately be fatal. To aid identification of those at risk of spinal infection, a better understanding of the red flags for spinal infection is needed. OBJECTIVE To better understand which red flags may help to identify spinal infection. DESIGN and Methods: A 10-year medical records review of red flags for spinal infection in Nigeria, using a bespoke data extraction tool. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the main independent predictors of spinal pain. RESULTS 124,913 records were reviewed, 1,645 patients were diagnosed with spinal infection. 79% of patients presented with spinal pain Univariable analysis revealed nine factors (some centres, all age groups above 16 years, co-morbidities, environmental factors, history of TB, radicular pain, pins and needles, numbness and spine tenderness.) were associated with greater odds (OR = 1.77-21.7, p < 0.001), whilst four (some centres, fatigue, fever and myotomal weakness) were associated with lower odds (OR = 0.51-0.59) of spine pain. Six factors were included in the final multivariable model associated with higher odds of spine pain: age groups above 16 years (OR 2.57 to 5.33, p < 0.05), co-morbidity (OR = 1.68, p < 0.05), history of TB (OR = 3.02, p < 0.05), weight loss (OR = 1.75, p < 0.01), radicular pain (OR = 19.88, p < 0.001); spine tenderness (OR = 6.54, p < 0.001). Myotomal weakness (OR = 0.66, p < 0.05) and fatigue (OR = 0.50, p < 0.01) were associated with lower odds of spinal pain in the final model. CONCLUSION Using data from ten hospitals in Nigeria within a ten-year period, we have produced a shortlist of red flags that can inform clinical decision making about potential spinal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Selfe
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty of Health and Education Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom; Visiting Academic in Physiotherapy Studies, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, Pori, Finland.
| | - Chidozie Mbada
- Department of Medical Rehabilitation, College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria; Visiting Research Fellow, Department of Health Professions, Faculty of Health and Education Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
| | - Bashir Kaka
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Bayero University Kano, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Adesola Odole
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Jane Ashbrook
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty of Health and Education Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamed Yusuf
- Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom; Manchester Metropolitan University, Institute of Sport, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Dobbin
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty of Health and Education Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
| | - Dave Lee
- Audubon PM Associates, Inc., United Kingdom
| | - Francis Fatoye
- Department of Health Professions, Faculty of Health and Education Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom
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Kioh SH, Pooke TG, Chong SV. Use of Radiography for New Patients Presenting to a Chiropractic Teaching Clinic: A Cross-sectional Analysis. JOURNAL OF CHIROPRACTIC HUMANITIES 2021; 28:9-14. [PMID: 35002573 PMCID: PMC8720650 DOI: 10.1016/j.echu.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to identify the number and type of indications for radiographs ordered in a chiropractic teaching clinic in Malaysia. METHODS A cross-sectional retrospective analysis was conducted using the medical health records of new patients who presented to the International Medical University Bukit Jalil teaching clinic for chiropractic care between August 2018 and July 2019. Data about sociodemographic characteristics, region of presenting complaint, radiography ordering rates, and referral indications were collected. We compared indications reported in the patient records with those listed in the International Medical University Chiropractic Clinical Manual. We conducted χ2 and logistic regression analysis to identify the association between radiography indications and the number of radiographs ordered. RESULTS Data were collected for 1451 patients (741 [51.1%] women and 700 [48.9%] men). The most common body region for the presenting complaint was the lumbar/pelvic region (39.0%), and the overall radiograph use rate was 2.7%, with the highest number of radiographs for the lumbar spine. CONCLUSION For the patient files sampled in this study, the overall radiograph order rate in the International Medical University Bukit Jalil Chiropractic teaching clinic was 2.7%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Hui Kioh
- Corresponding author: Sheng Hui Kioh, Department of Chiropractic, International Medical University, 126, Jln Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Mann TN, Davis JH, Walzl G, Beltran CG, du Toit J, Lamberts RP, Chegou NN. Candidate Biomarkers to Distinguish Spinal Tuberculosis From Mechanical Back Pain in a Tuberculosis Endemic Setting. Front Immunol 2021; 12:768040. [PMID: 34868023 PMCID: PMC8637108 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.768040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal tuberculosis (TB) may have a variable, non-specific presentation including back pain with- or without- constitutional symptoms. Further tools are needed to aid early diagnosis of this potentially severe form of TB and immunological biomarkers may show potential in this regard. The aim of this study was to investigate the utility of host serum biomarkers to distinguish spinal TB from mechanical back pain. Methods Patients with suspected spinal TB or suspected mechanical back pain were recruited from a tertiary hospital in the Western Cape, South Africa, and provided a blood sample for biomarker analysis. Diagnosis was subsequently confirmed using bacteriological testing, advanced imaging and/or clinical evaluation, as appropriate. The concentrations of 19 host biomarkers were evaluated in serum samples using the Luminex platform. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves and General Discriminant Analysis were used to identify biomarkers with the potential to distinguish spinal TB from mechanical back pain. Results Twenty-six patients with spinal TB and 17 with mechanical back pain were recruited. Seven out of 19 biomarkers were significantly different between groups, of which Fibrinogen, CRP, IFN-γ and NCAM were the individual markers with the highest discrimination utility (Area Under Curve ROC plot 0.88-0.99). A five-marker biosignature (CRP, NCAM, Ferritin, CXCL8 and GDF-15) correctly classified all study participants after leave-one-out cross-validation. Conclusion This study identified host serum biomarkers with the potential to diagnose spinal TB, including a five-marker biosignature. These preliminary findings require validation in larger studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa N. Mann
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Rheumatology, Mediclinic Winelands Orthopaedic Hospital, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Johan H. Davis
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Orthopaedics and Rheumatology, Mediclinic Winelands Orthopaedic Hospital, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Gerhard Walzl
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Caroline G. Beltran
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jacques du Toit
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Robert P. Lamberts
- Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Sport Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Novel N. Chegou
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Ali A, Manzoor K, Chang YM, Mehta PJ, Brook A, Hackney DB, Edlow JA, Bhadelia RA. Role of C-reactive protein in effective utilization of emergent MRI for spinal infections. Emerg Radiol 2021; 28:573-580. [PMID: 33449259 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-020-01892-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Emergent spinal MRI is recommended for patients with back pain and red flags for infection. However, many of these studies are negative due to low prevalence of spinal infections. Our purpose was to assess if C-reactive protein (CRP) can be used to guide effective utilization of emergent MRI for spinal infections. METHODS 316/960 (33%) MRIs performed for infection by the emergency department over 75-month period had CRP levels obtained at presentation, after excluding patients receiving antibiotic or had spinal surgery in < 1 month. An MRI was considered positive when there was imaging evidence of spinal infection confirmed on follow-up by surgery/biopsy/drainage or definitive therapy. A CRP of ≤ 10 mg/L was considered normal and > 100 mg/L as highly elevated. RESULTS CRP was normal in 95/316 (30%) and abnormal in 221/316 (70%) patients. MRI was positive in 43/316 (13.6%) patients, all of whom had abnormal CRP. CRP (p < 0.001) and intravenous drug use (IVDU; p = 0.002) were independently associated with a positive MRI. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis showed AUC of 0.76 for CRP, slightly improving with IVDU. Sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive values for CRP level cut-off: 10 mg/L, 100%, 35%, and 100%, and 100 mg/L, 58%, 70% and 91%, respectively. CONCLUSION Abnormal CRP, although extremely sensitive, lacks specificity in predicting a positive MRI for spinal infection unless highly elevated. However, a normal CRP (absent recent antibiotic or surgery) makes spinal infection unlikely, and its routine use as a screening test can help reducing utilization of emergent MRI for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamir Ali
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Komal Manzoor
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Yu-Ming Chang
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Pritesh J Mehta
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Alexander Brook
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - David B Hackney
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Jonathan A Edlow
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Rafeeque A Bhadelia
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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Guthrie JA, Fazio M, Anderson T, Carroll C. Acute on chronic back pain as the presentation of an occult foreign body bowel perforation with resultant epidural abscess, osteomyelitis and sepsis. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:14/1/e238320. [PMID: 33436359 PMCID: PMC7805351 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-238320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
A 29-year-old male paratrooper presented to multiple emergency departments (EDs) and his primary provider multiple times over sequential days. Each time, the patient received the same diagnosis of acute on chronic back pain. The patient was treated conservatively and routine MRI of the lumbar spine was performed 5 days after the last visit. It revealed a lesion occupying nearly all the visualised portion of the spinal canal. The patient was immediately called back for further imaging. The patient was then diagnosed with a foreign body perforating the rectosigmoid colon, an epidural abscess and pelvic osteomyelitis. The patient was immediately taken to the ED where he was found to be septic. The foreign body was surgically removed and determined to be a swallowed toothpick. Urgent surgical decompression of epidural space was also performed. The patient then underwent a prolonged but near complete recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff A Guthrie
- Radiology, Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital, Fort Polk, Louisiana, USA
| | - Michael Fazio
- Radiology, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Todd Anderson
- Emergency, Bayne-Jones ACH, Fort Polk, Louisiana, USA
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Herget GW, Kälberer F, Ihorst G, Graziani G, Klein L, Rassner M, Gehler C, Jung J, Schmal H, Wäsch R, Engelhardt M. Interdisciplinary approach to multiple myeloma - time to diagnosis and warning signs. Leuk Lymphoma 2020; 62:891-898. [PMID: 33225781 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2020.1849681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Delayed diagnosis is a common challenge in the management of multiple myeloma (MM). This prospective interdisciplinary study evaluated symptoms and time to diagnosis (TTD) in 81/295 screened patients at our tertiary center, who were examined by an orthopedist prior to the MM diagnosis. The most frequent complaint was back pain (81%), mainly localized thoracic and/or lumbar. Pain was independent of movement in 85%, occurred at night in 69%, and at multiple localizations in 30% of patients. Notably, 63% patients with an orthopedic disease noticed substantial symptom change before the MM diagnosis was made. The median TTD was 7 months and did not differ significantly between patients with or without a preexisting skeletal disease. To avoid delayed diagnosis, physicians should consider MM as a differential diagnosis, whenever warning signs such as skeletal pain independent from movement, at night, at various localizations, and change in pain characteristics accompanied by fatigue, are reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg W Herget
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Felix Kälberer
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gabriele Ihorst
- Clinical Trials Unit, Medical Clinic, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Giulia Graziani
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Klein
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael Rassner
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Gehler
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Jung
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hagen Schmal
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Ralph Wäsch
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Monika Engelhardt
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Freiburg (CCCF), Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Rafeiner P. [Not Available]. PRAXIS 2020; 109:753. [PMID: 32752961 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157/a003519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
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Abstract
The International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT) led the development of a framework to help clinicians assess and manage people who may have serious spinal pathology. While rare, serious spinal pathology can have devastating and life-changing or life-limiting consequences, and must be identified early and managed appropriately. Red flags (signs and symptoms that might raise suspicion of serious spinal pathology) have historically been used by clinicians to identify serious spinal pathology. Currently, there is an absence of high-quality evidence for the diagnostic accuracy of most red flags. This framework is intended to provide a clinical-reasoning pathway to clarify the role of red flags. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2020;50(7):350-372. Epub 21 May 2020. doi:10.2519/jospt.2020.9971.
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