Cervical spine infection arising from chronic paronychia: A case report and review of literature

This case report describes a rare instance of cervical spine infection (CSPI) originating from a seemingly unrelated condition: chronic paronychia (an infection of the tissue surrounding a fingernail or toenail). The infection was caused by Staphylococcus aureus, highlighting the potential for bacteria to spread from a localized infection to the spine. The patient, a 15-year-old male, initially presented with fever, neck pain, and limited neck movement. Over time, he developed progressive limb dysfunction, indicating spinal cord involvement. The case emphasizes the diagnostic challenges posed by CSPI due to its nonspecific symptoms. The successful treatment involved a combination of surgical intervention (anterior cervical debridement and fusion) and a 12-week course of antibiotics. The patient showed significant improvement, with stable cervical fixation and resolution of symptoms at the 3-year follow-up. This highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate management in CSPI cases.

• 1
  The study highlights a rare case of cervical spine pyogenic infection (CSPI) stemming from chronic paronychia, emphasizing that infections can originate from unexpected sources.
• 2
  Early diagnosis of CSPI is critical, relying on imaging examination findings and laboratory markers to identify the infection source promptly.
• 3
  Multidisciplinary collaboration, prompt antibiotic therapy, and surgical intervention are crucial for preventing severe complications and promoting patient recovery in CSPI cases.