MRI findings in proven Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) spondylitis

The incidence of skeletal TB is increasing. A better understanding of the MRI features of proven TB spondylitis in our setting is needed. Materials and methods. Histologically proven cases of TB spondylitis, with MR imaging performed at Universitas Hospital on a 1.5T scanner, were reviewed. Results. Typical findings of vertebral column involvement were seen in all patients, namely multiple levels affected and paravertebral abscesses. The thoracic spine was involved more than the lumbar spine. In nearly all cases intervertebral disc involvement was noted. Posterior longitudinal ligaments were intact in all but 1 patient, even though there was some elevation in a number of patients. Abscess walls were also found to be thick instead of thin as expected.