Dural perforation and life-threatening central nervous system complications associated with septic arthritis of the lumbar facet joint: illustrative case.

Background: Septic arthritis of the lumbar facet joint (SALFJ) is a rare condition that can lead to serious complications. The authors present an uncommon case in which SALFJ resulted in bacterial meningitis (BM) with hydrocephalus and pyogenic ventriculitis, causing a disturbance of consciousness. Reports describing perforation of the dura mater by an epidural abscess are rare, and the present case offers valuable insights into the management of complex and severe complications arising from SALFJ.