Spinal Tuberculosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and More - Verywell Health
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection that, if left untreated, can be fatal. This condition, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis , typically affects the lungs. However, it can affect other parts of the body, including the bones. Spinal tuberculosis—also called Pott's disease—is the most common type of TB affecting the bones. This article discusses spinal tuberculosis—symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for this condition. x-reflexnaja / Getty Images Symptoms of Spinal Tuberculosis Spinal tuberculosis typically affects the thoracic spine in the upper back and the lumbar spine in the lower back. Symptoms of spinal tuberculosis are vague, particularly early on. They include: Back pain Muscle spasms Stiffness As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more apparent, causing: Joint deformities/scoliosis (an abnormal curve in the spine) Swelling Decreased range of motion Ulcers