What symptoms are characteristic of Pott's disease?

Pott's disease, also known as spinal tuberculosis, is characterized by specific systemic and localized symptoms due to the infection of the vertebrae by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The presence of back pain is a hallmark symptom, reflecting the involvement of the spine. Fever is commonly associated with this infectious process, as the body mounts an immune response. Night sweats are another classic feature of tuberculosis, often occurring due to the systemic dissemination of the bacteria. Additionally, weight loss is often seen in patients with chronic infections like tuberculosis because the body's metabolism is frequently altered in response to the infection.

In this condition, the combination of back pain, fever, night sweats, and weight loss is particularly indicative of the advanced stages of the disease, highlighting the interplay between the local infection of the spine and the systemic effects of tuberculosis. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for diagnosis and timely intervention to prevent complications such as spinal deformity and neurological deficits.