*7.3.1.1 Vertebral osteomyelitis*

Vertebral osteomyelitis most commonly occurs via the hematogenous route. The disease can progress to abscess formation and can involve the paravertebral structures and spinal canal. Risk factors are diabetes, renal failure, rheumatoid arthritis, AIDS, malignancy and old age. The most common bacterial agents responsible for vertebral osteomyelitis are *S. aureus*, Streptococcus sp., *P. aeruginosa*, *E. coli* and Proteus sp.
