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Spinal epidural abscess — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardInfectious disease emergenciesSpinal epidural abscessRCPSC EM

CTAS 2. A 55-year-old with haemodialysis has fever, severe back pain, and new leg weakness. CRP is 240 and WBC is 19. He has urinary retention and midline lumbar tenderness. Blood cultures are drawn. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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Correct answer: D — MRI whole spine with contrast

Fever, back pain, neurologic deficits, and dialysis risk indicate spinal epidural abscess; urgent MRI is the key investigation.

Reference: Association of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Disease Canada resources; Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine