What is the worst outcome of osteomyelitis in the spinal cord?

Paralysis: It can result in collapse of the vertebra with compression of the spinal cord. The paralysis in this case would be permanent.

Functional loss: Depending on the level where the osteomyelitis occurs, patient's can have paralysis of loss of function below the level of osteomyelitis. Since most cases of osteomyelitis occur at the thoracic or lumbar region, patients develop paraplegia. Loss of bladder and bowel function may also occur.