Kerosene-Induced Epidural Abscesses

To the Editor. —Spinal epidural abscess is usually caused by pyogenic bacteria or mycobacteria. We describe a case of sterile epidural abscess caused by local kerosene injection. Report of a Case. —A 22-year-old woman was referred to our medical center for a sudden onset of weakness of both legs. The paraparesis appeared while the patient was receiving antibacterial and surgical therapy for superficial skin abscesses. On admission, her temperature was 39 °C, and her WBC count was 23,000/cu mm, with 30% bands. Paraplegia of both legs and sensory loss below D-8 were noted. She had several incisions in abscess sites that were healing. Myelography disclosed a complete blockage at D-12. During the operation, a large suppurative process was found occupying the subcutaneous tissues, the facial planes, the muscles, and the epidural space between D-10 and L-2. Laminectomy was performed. Gram's, acid-fast, and india ink stains were all negative. Antistaphylococcal and