Spinal abscess of Haemophilus paraphrophilus: A case report

Study Design. A case of paraspinal abscess formation from Haemophilus paraphrophilus is presented. Objectives. To describe a case of paraspinal abscess formation from H. paraphrophilus, a fastidious commensal organism of the mouth and pharynx. A precise baeteriologic identification can be difficult; techniques for such identification are discussed. Summary of Background Data. Spinal abscess caused by H. paraphrophilus is unusual and can be very difficult to diagnose. Methods. The etiology clinical presentation, technical examinations, and treatment are reviewed. Results. Prolonged antibiotic treatment was curative, although surgery was considered. Conclusions. Bacteriologic diagnoses in these rate infections are difficult. Antibiotic therapy was curative in the patient described.