Pott’s disease is a type of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that affects the spine, causing symptoms such as joint inflammation, pain, stiffness of the spine and weakness in the legs, for example.
Pott’s disease is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and it usually happens when pulmonary tuberculosis is not treated correctly, causing the bacteria to spread to other parts of the body, including the spine.
It is important that Pott’s disease is identified and treated according to the doctor’s instructions, which may indicate the use of antibiotics, to eliminate the bacteria, and physiotherapy sessions, to avoid worsening the infection, which can cause total stiffness.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of Pott’s disease are:
- Weakness in the legs;
- Progressive pain;
- Palpable mass at the end of the spine;
- Difficulty moving;
- Stiffness of the spine;
- There may be a fever.
In the most serious cases, in which there is no adequate response to treatment, Pott’s disease can progress to spinal cord compression and consequently paraplegia.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of Pott’s disease is made by an infectious disease specialist, orthopedist or general practitioner, through the evaluation of the signs and symptoms presented by the person, in addition to the results of imaging and laboratory tests.
To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may request imaging tests such as x-ray, computed tomography and scintigraphy, in addition to performing a bone biopsy and tuberculin test, also called PPD test, which indicates the presence of the bacteria responsible for the disease. illness. Learn more about the PPD exam.
What causes Pott’s disease
Pott’s disease occurs, most of the time, due to the reactivation of pulmonary tuberculosis that has not been treated correctly, which can cause the bacteria to remain in the body and reach the spine without symptoms being noticed.
How the treatment is carried out
Treatment for Pott’s disease must be carried out in accordance with medical advice, and it is important to use antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria, even if there are no more symptoms.
Additionally, immobilization of the spine, using a brace, and physiotherapy sessions may be recommended to prevent complete stiffness of the spine. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain abscesses or stabilize the spine.
Bibliography
- MELLO, Murilo CP; SILVA, Philip BB; EHENDO, Karla M. S et al. Pott’s disease: a bibliographical review of the last 5 years. Com. Health Sciences. Vol 25. 2 ed; 173-184, 2014
- AGUIAR, Diego M.; PESSOA, Fabrício S.; CAVALCANTI, Maria Neusa S. Pott’s disease: Case report. Pediatric Residency. Vol 9. 2 ed; 164-169, 2019
