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Spinal epidural abscess — ABEM Board MCQ

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HardNeurological emergenciesSpinal epidural abscessABEM Board

A 47-year-old man with injection drug use presents as triage level 2 with fever, severe back pain, urinary retention, and new leg weakness. ESR and CRP are elevated. Which of the following is the most appropriate imaging study?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — MRI spine with contrast

Fever, back pain, neurologic deficits, and urinary retention suggest spinal epidural abscess, best evaluated by urgent MRI.

Reference: IDSA vertebral osteomyelitis guidance; ABEM EM Model