Pyomyositis in children: analysis of 31 cases

In a 10-year period, 31 children with 35 pyomyositis were managed in Zaria, northern Nigeria. Twenty-two (71%) were less than 10 years of age, with a peak incidence at between 5 and 9 years. The leg muscles, mainly the quadriceps, were most frequently involved (51.4%), followed by the trunk muscles (25.7%), predominantly those of the anterior abdominal wall. Arm and shoulder girdle muscles were less frequently affected (11.4% each). Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequently cultured organism (75%) and was usually sensitive to cloxacillin and, to a lesser degree, to erythromycin and chloramphenicol. Incision and adequate drainage was usually very effective with recurrence at only one site. Antibiotics were used routinely. Involvement of the heart and lungs occurred in two children respectively, the former causing the only death. The average duration of hospital stay was 20 days.