Intramedullary spinal cord abscess involving Actinomyces and Streptococcus: a case report and literature review

Intramedullary spinal cord abscesses (ISCA) are rare and caused by central nervous system infections. Although polymicrobial infections are rarely seen in ISCAs, isolation of the causative pathogen is important for treatment. Here, we describe a very rare case of ISCA resulting from a mixed Streptococcus and Actinomyces infection.

An 82-year-old man presented with acute posterior cervical pain and progressive quadriplegia. Radiological investigations revealed a mass lesion showing marginal enhancement at the level of the C3-4 vertebrae. Microsurgical drainage was performed, and Streptococcus and Actinomyces were identified as causative agents. Subsequent antibiotic treatment was noted to be beneficial to the patient.

This case suggests that mixed infection can develop into ISCA depending on the causative agents such as Actinomyces. Prompt pathogen-directed antibacterial therapy is required for ISCA treatment.