Epidural Abscess Red Flags — FRCA Final MCQ

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ModerateRegional AnaesthesiaEpidural Abscess Red FlagsFRCA Final

Postoperative day 2: epidural in situ, new back pain, fever 38.8°C, bilateral leg weakness. Most critical investigation?

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Correct answer: B — Urgent MRI spine

Red-flag epidural abscess presentation. Neurosurgical emergency requiring urgent whole-spine MRI. Surgical decompression within 12-24h of deficit onset improves neurological recovery. Blood cultures also needed but MRI is priority.

Reference: RCOA – 2023 – Epidural abscess: recognition and management