What Causes Spinal Epidural Abscess?
In one-third of the cases involving spinal epidural abscess, doctors cannot track down the cause of the condition. There’s no way for them to recognize the initial cause, but they should still have enough information to diagnose the disease accurately.
In other cases, though, an underlying infection is the most common cause. The organism most often found in these cases is Staphylococcus aureus, then Escherichia coli, and other mixed anaerobes. In the remaining cases, contaminated medical instruments or Pott disease are the root causes.
Can a Doctor Cause Spinal Epidural Abscess?
Just like other situations of medical malpractice, a doctor’s negligence can cause spinal epidural abscess. Doctor negligence most often comes into play when he or she uses a piece of contaminated medical equipment on the patient.
For instance, bacteria on a surgical tool, infections spread through a dental procedure, and failing to sanitize an IV can all lead to the patient suffering from severe harm.
Whether a doctor causes spinal epidural abscess or he or she fails to diagnose the condition, they’re negligent. They fail to provide treatment, thus breaking their duty to provide the utmost care to a patient. The doctor in this situation is subject to legal action.
Our Baltimore medical malpractice attorneys at Brown & Barron dedicate ourselves to protecting patients from negligence. We’re here to help our clients understand their rights and pursue maximum compensation on their behalves.