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Epidural Abscess
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
An epidural abscess is a walled off area of infection in the epidural space. This is the space between the outermost membrane of the brain or spinal cord and the overlying bone and ligaments.
What is going on in the body?
An epidural abscess is usually caused by the spread of infection from elsewhere in the body. The infection may spread either directly or through the bloodstream.
What are the causes and risks of the infection?
An epidural abscess usually results from the spread of infection either directly or through the bloodstream. For example, an infection of the nasal sinuses or an open skull fracture can cause an abscess to develop. Factors that increase a person's risk for an abscess include: