Intervertebral discitis in children and adolescents.

In 29 children wih symptoms and signs as well as laboratory and radiographic findings consistent with intervertebral discitis, the syndrome appeared to be a manifestation of both infectious and noninfectious inflammatory processes. When systemic sepsis is present, antibiotic therapy is indicated. In the absence of fever and leukocytosis, plaster cast immobilization should suffice. Craig needle aspiration and/or open biopsy are not routinely required, but should be reserved for those patients who fail to respond to routine treatment in whom tuberculosis is suspected.