Common Causes Of Arachnoiditis

Tuberculosis

Some patients experience arachnoiditis as a complication of tuberculosis. Other bacterial infections, viral infections, and fungal infections may also lead to arachnoiditis if they affect the spine. Tuberculosis, often abbreviated TB, is a bacterial infection that spreads through the air when individuals cough. Patients with weak immune systems are at a higher risk of contracting tuberculosis because their immune systems can't fight the bacteria off. This includes both those with immune-compromising health conditions and those taking immunosuppressants. It's vital for tuberculosis to be diagnosed and treated properly, as the disease can become life-threatening. Common signs of tuberculosis are bad coughing spells that last for at least three weeks, fever, general weakness and tiredness, loss of appetite, and coughing up mucus or blood.

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Chemicals

Certain chemicals have been linked to the development of arachnoiditis. Some patients developed arachnoiditis after having a myelogram done. This diagnostic imaging test uses contrast dye and computer imaging technology to look for abnormalities or injuries in the spine. The dye is injected into a patient's spinal column prior to the procedure, and when it spreads through the spine and surrounding nerve tissues, a radiologist can see the spine more clearly. In the past, the dye used might have caused the arachnoid to become inflamed. However, medical professionals no longer use the suspected type of contrast dye. Some individuals have expressed concern that the preservatives in epidural steroid injections might lead to arachnoiditis. Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are pain-relieving procedures that help target and reduce spine-related pain.

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