Spondylodiscitis in people who misuse drugs by injection : a case series of Maltese patients

Abstract

Spondylodiscitis is associated with significant morbidity and some mortality. This case series describes the diagnosis, management, and outcome of 11 patients who were diagnosed with spondylodiscitis over a period of 10 years. Information about the presentation, diagnosis and management of the patients was extracted from the summaries provided to patients on discharge from hospital. Access to such information was consented to by the patients. All patients were known to misuse drugs by injection and had been in contact with treatment services for a number of years before the onset of the infection. This case series highlights the possible deterioration in the quality of life of patients diagnosed with spondylodiscitis, especially if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. It also tries to impress the importance for health care professionals to facilitate and actively promote the engagement of patients who misuse drugs by injection with care and treatment services, if diagnosis and treatment of this condition are to be effective and result in less morbidity.