Psoas Abscess – A Hidden Deep Infection That Causes Back and Abdominal Pain
When a Deep Muscle Infection Is Mistaken for Spine or Kidney Problems
Persistent lower back pain with fever is often treated as a spine issue, urinary infection, or muscle strain. However, one rare and potentially serious condition that often goes undiagnosed is Psoas Abscess.
A psoas abscess is a collection of pus in the psoas muscle — a deep muscle located in the lower back that extends to the hip. Because of its deep location, diagnosis is frequently delayed.
At Aayush Multispeciality Hospital, complex infections like psoas abscess are diagnosed using advanced imaging and treated safely under the expert care of Dr. Ankur Bhanushali, a highly experienced General and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon in Thane.
What Is the Psoas Muscle?
The psoas muscle:
- Connects the lower spine to the thigh
- Helps in hip movement and walking
- Lies deep inside the abdomen
- Is close to kidneys, spine, and intestines
When infection develops in this muscle, it can spread silently before symptoms become obvious.
Types of Psoas Abscess
1️⃣ Primary Psoas Abscess
- Occurs without a clear nearby infection
- Caused by spread through bloodstream
- More common in diabetic or immunocompromised patients
2️⃣ Secondary Psoas Abscess
- Caused by spread from nearby infection
- Spine tuberculosis
- Intestinal infection
- Crohn’s disease
- Kidney infection
Symptoms of Psoas Abscess
Symptoms are often vague, which delays diagnosis.
✔ Persistent lower back pain
✔ Pain radiating to groin or thigh
✔ Fever and chills
✔ Difficulty walking
✔ Pain while lifting leg
✔ Weight loss (in chronic cases)
Some patients bend slightly forward to reduce pain (classic sign).
Why Is It Often Misdiagnosed?
Because symptoms resemble:
- Slip disc
- Kidney infection
- Sciatica
- Hip joint problems
- Muscle strain
Without CT or MRI, diagnosis can easily be missed.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Investigations include:
- Blood tests (infection markers high)
- Ultrasound (may detect fluid)
- CT Scan (most accurate)
- MRI spine (if spinal cause suspected)
CT scan clearly shows the pus collection in the psoas muscle.
What Happens If It Is Ignored?
Untreated psoas abscess can lead to:
- Spread of infection
- Sepsis (life-threatening)
- Septic shock
- Joint involvement
- Chronic disability
Early drainage is critical.
Treatment of Psoas Abscess
1️⃣ Antibiotics
Broad-spectrum IV antibiotics are started immediately.
2️⃣ Image-Guided Drainage
- CT-guided needle drainage
- Minimally invasive
- Effective in most cases
3️⃣ Surgical Drainage (If Required)
Surgery is needed if:
- Abscess is large
- Not responding to drainage
- Associated intestinal or spinal pathology present
At Aayush Multispeciality Hospital:
✔ Advanced imaging guidance
✔ Safe drainage procedures
✔ Laparoscopic management when required
✔ Complete infection control
✔ Comprehensive post-operative care
Why Surgical Expertise Matters
Deep abscess drainage requires:
- Precise anatomical knowledge
- Avoiding injury to major vessels
- Identifying underlying cause
- Managing associated abdominal disease
Dr. Ankur Bhanushali has extensive experience in managing complex abdominal infections, abscess drainage, and advanced laparoscopic procedures with excellent safety outcomes.
When Should You Seek Immediate Consultation?
Consult urgently if you have:
- Persistent back pain with fever
- Pain not improving with routine treatment
- Difficulty walking with groin pain
- History of tuberculosis or abdominal infection
Early CT evaluation can prevent serious complications.
Advanced Infection & Abdominal Surgery Care in Thane
Deep infections like psoas abscess require timely diagnosis and expert management.
For safe and comprehensive treatment, consult:
Aayush Multispeciality Hospital – Full Address
📍 1st Floor, Marigold Apartment
Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi
Thane West – 400602
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic – Full Address
📍 Shop No. 4, Laxmi Krupa Building
Edulji Road, Charai
Thane West – 400602
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
If you are suffering from persistent back pain with fever or unexplained abdominal pain, do not ignore it.
Consult Dr. Ankur Bhanushali, one of Thane’s trusted General and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeons, for accurate diagnosis and safe, patient-focused treatment.
