Spinal epidural abscess in a neonate.

A case of purulent spinal epidural abscess in a 20-day-old girl is presented. The patient had symptoms of fever, localized back pain and swelling over the interscapular area. The diagnosis was made by magnetic resonance imaging. Purulent material grew Staphylococcus aureus from the lesion. Because of severe cord compression surgical laminotomy and drainage were performed, and antibiotics were administered. One year later she was doing well without neurologic sequelae.