Cervical epidural abscess after cupping and acupuncture

Study design: Retrospective case report.

Objective: Report of an uncommon complication of cupping and acupuncture.

Summary of background data: Epidural abscess after cupping and acupuncture therapies is quite rare. Only a few cases of epidural abscess after acupuncture have been reported. The present report describes a case of cervical epidural abscess that developed after cupping and acupuncture.

Methods: A 47-year-old woman presented with swelling and pain in the posterior nuchal region. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine revealed a well-enhanced epidural mass at the C1-C3 level that was determined to be an epidural abscess.

Results: The symptoms related to epidural abscess resolved after treatment with antibiotics.

Conclusion: Although a rare complication, epidural abscess is a possibility when applying cupping and acupuncture. Therapists need to be aware of human anatomy in the vicinity of the puncture and must give continuous attention to hygiene throughout the procedure.