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Potts disease is a spinal infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and is the most common spinal infection in the Philippines. It typically spreads from the lungs to the spine, with the thoracic region being the most affected area. Symptoms include back pain, neurological deficits, deformity, fever, weight loss, and fatigue.
Risk factors for MTB infection include prolonged exposure to infected individuals, immunodeficiencies, overcrowding, malnutrition, and low socio-economic status. Treatment primarily involves prolonged antibiotic therapy, but surgery may be needed for severe cases, such as paralysis, significant deformity, or spinal instability.
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