[Acute osteomyelitis. Clinical, radiological and bacteriological features and outcome]

J Merino Arribas1, I Carpintero Martín, M Marrero Calvo

  • 1Sección de Escolares, Servicio de Pediatría, Hospital General Yagüe, Burgos. jmmerino@hgy.es

Insights

Neonatal acute osteomyelitis presents differently than in older children, with distinct radiological and anatomical features. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in both age groups.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Musculoskeletal infections
  • Neonatal care

Background:

  • Acute osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can affect children of all ages.
  • Distinguishing features between neonatal and older pediatric cases are not well-defined.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare clinical, radiological, bacteriological features, and outcomes of neonatal acute osteomyelitis with those in older children.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 45 patients under 15 years with acute osteomyelitis.
  • Patients divided into two groups: neonates (<= 28 days) and older children (> 28 days).
  • Statistical analysis using Chi-square and Student's t-tests.

Main Results:

  • Neonates (Group 1) showed higher rates of epiphyseal involvement, arthritis, and humerus affection, with predominant osteolysis and periosteal reaction.
  • Older children (Group 2) more frequently had metaphyseal and tibial involvement.
  • Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen; imaging techniques like bone scintigraphy and MRI demonstrated high sensitivity.

Conclusions:

  • Acute osteomyelitis exhibits distinct clinical and radiological characteristics in neonates versus older children.
  • Advanced imaging modalities are highly sensitive for diagnosis.
  • Bacteriological confirmation was achieved in 50% of cases, with Staphylococcus aureus being prevalent.
Abstract

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