Epidural abscess: an unusual cause of postpartum fever

• Autor(es): Vieira,Catarina ; Borges,Ana Catarina ; Correia,Cátia ; Reis,Isabel
• Data: 2021
• Origem: SciELO Portugal
• Assunto(s): Epidural abscess; Postpartum period; Fever.
• Tipo de Documento: Relatório
• Idioma: Inglês

Descrição

Abstract Epidural analgesia is frequently used for labour analgesia, and major complications are rare. This article illustrates a case of a healthy woman submitted to a caesarean section under epidural anaesthesia, which developed postpartum fever, worsening abdominal and lumbar pain and neurologic deficits. Lumbar magnetic resonance confirmed the epidural abscess with spinal compression, demanding urgent laminectomy and surgical drainage , along with prolonged antibiotic therapy. Epidural abscess, although a rare complication, can have an important impact on neurologic integrity. The clinical manifestations are unspecific, and timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent neurologic damage and death.