MR imaging appearances of cervical epidural abscess

Epidural abscess of the cervical spine is an uncommon disorder. The presentation is often nonspecific and the diagnosis unsuspected. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is now considered the imaging investigation of choice. We report six patients with cervical epidural abscess diagnosed on MR imaging. The MR imaging showed the abscess to have a variable appearance and enhancement characteristics. Follow-up MR examinations confirmed resolution of the abscess and, in five cases, allowed conservative management.