Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
10:38
Deciphering and Imaging Pathogenesis and Cording of Mycobacterium abscessus in Zebrafish Embryos
Published on: September 9, 2015
Peripelvic abscesses: a diagnostic dilemma
M A Mormino1, P W Esposito, S C Raynor
1University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics
|March 24, 1999
Summary
Peripelvic abscesses are rare in temperate climates, often missed due to subtle symptoms. Computed tomography (CT) scans are crucial for diagnosis, with surgical drainage and antibiotics leading to successful outcomes in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Acute hematogenous peripelvic infections are uncommon in temperate climates.
- Subtle and subacute symptoms frequently delay diagnosis of peripelvic abscesses in children.
- Hip-flexion pseudocontracture is a key presenting symptom.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the experience with nine children diagnosed with and treated for hematogenous peripelvic infection.
- To highlight the diagnostic utility of computed tomography (CT) scans.
- To evaluate treatment outcomes for peripelvic abscesses in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of hospital and clinic charts for nine pediatric patients with peripelvic abscess.
- Analysis of presenting symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatments, and outcomes.
- Microbiologic confirmation of causative organisms.
Main Results:
- Computed tomography (CT) scan was diagnostic in all nine patients.
- Seven patients treated with surgical irrigation/debridement and antibiotics showed rapid symptom resolution.
- Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen identified.
Conclusions:
- Peripelvic abscesses should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric hip or lower abdominal pain, even in temperate regions.
- CT scan is the most valuable diagnostic tool.
- Surgical drainage combined with antibiotics offers the most consistent positive outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Acute pancreatitis presents a complex medical emergency characterized by rapid onset inflammation of the pancreas, demanding timely diagnosis and management to prevent complications. The condition primarily manifests through severe upper abdominal pain that often radiates to the back. This pain intensifies following the consumption of fatty foods. Accompanying symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal distention, fever, dyspnea, cyanosis, and jaundice can vary in intensity but significantly...
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
01:30Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
A healthcare provider can diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI) through several methods:Medical History and Symptoms: The provider will take a detailed medical history and ask about symptoms such as frequent urination, burning sensation during urination, and lower abdominal pain.Urinalysis: A clean-catch urine sample is collected in a sterile container and tested for the presence of bacteria, white blood cells (leukocytes), nitrites, blood, and protein. The presence of leukocytes and...
01:28Acute Pyelonephritis II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
Introduction:For diagnosing acute pyelonephritis, a comprehensive patient history is collected to identify symptoms such as dysuria, frequent or urgent urination, flank pain, or costovertebral angle (CVA) tenderness that may suggest a kidney infection.Physical ExaminationDuring the physical examination, CVA tenderness is assessed. This involves gentle percussion over the costovertebral angle, where tenderness often indicates a kidney infection.Diagnostic TestsUrinalysis: Used to identify white...
01:26Brain Abscess l: Introduction
A brain abscess is a focal, intracerebral infection characterized by a localized collection of pus within the brain parenchyma, resulting from microbial invasion and the body’s inflammatory response. It progresses through stages: early and late cerebritis, followed by early and late capsule formation, reflecting tissue destruction, immune response, and eventual encapsulation.Etiology and PathogenesisCausative organisms vary with source and host factors, often involving polymicrobial infections,...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...