Noninfectious osteitis: part of the SAPHO syndrome

SAPHO, a rare syndrome, is a recently suggested acronym for synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis. It encompasses many features which have been described in different but overlapping conditions. Not all of the syndrome components need to be present for inclusion in SAPHO to be justified, especially the dermatologic components. Two cases are described as examples. Clinicians should be aware of this rare disorder if positive early diagnoses are to be made in patients presenting with skeletal pain.