[Osteomyelitis in children]

Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis is a typical childhood illness, occurring predominantly in boys. The main symptom is inflammation but poor general condition also occurs occasionally. Elevation of CRP and sedimentation rate as well as leucocytosis are the most important laboratory findings. Conventional x-ray is mandatory, however scintigram and MRI are now specific in the early stage. Ultrasound can show abscess formation in the soft tissue. Treatment involves the immediate use of specifically targeted, intravenous antibiotics. Surgical intervention stands in second place. Immobilisation is only useful in the initial treatment of pain. Strict diagnostic and therapeutic management prevents complications, which would need reconstructive bone and soft tissue reconstruction, and is the key to a good primary prognosis.