Epidural abscesses are infections that form in the space around the dura, the tissue envelope that surrounds the spinal cord and nerve root and generat enough pressure to affect neurological function.
Infections of the spinal column is a very broad topic and includes those diseases that arise spontaneously and those that are secondary to some inciting event. True infections are uncommon.
Vertebral osteomyelitis is an infection in the vertebral body and is caused by either bacteria or a fungus. Read about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of osteomyelitis.