Related Experiment Videos
Psoas abscess: case report and review of the literature
I Gruenwald1, J Abrahamson, O Cohen
1Department of Surgery, Lady Davis Carmel Hospital, Haifa, Israel.
Abstract:
Psoas muscle abscess is rare and presents a diagnostic challenge requiring a high index of suspicion. We report an unusual case of primary psoas abscess caused by Proteus mirabilis. Primary psoas abscess is most commonly present in children and is usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus. A total of 434 cases of psoas abscess has been reported. The subject is discussed noting the differences between primary and secondary cases, and emphasizing the importance of ultrasound and computerized tomography guided drainage of psoas abscess. A flow chart for the evaluation and management of primary and secondary abscess is presented, taking into consideration the success rate of the various methods of treatment described in the literature.
Insights
This case study highlights a rare primary psoas abscess caused by Proteus mirabilis, emphasizing diagnostic challenges and the importance of imaging-guided drainage for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- Psoas muscle abscess is an uncommon condition that poses diagnostic difficulties.
- Primary psoas abscesses are more frequent in pediatric populations, typically stemming from Staphylococcus aureus infections.
- A review of 434 reported psoas abscess cases reveals distinct characteristics between primary and secondary presentations.
Observation:
- This report presents an unusual case of a primary psoas abscess attributed to Proteus mirabilis.
- A review of 434 reported psoas abscess cases is discussed.
Findings:
- The case highlights Proteus mirabilis as a causative agent in primary psoas abscess, diverging from common etiologies.
- Emphasis is placed on the diagnostic utility of ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) for abscess evaluation.
Implications:
- The findings underscore the need for a high index of suspicion in diagnosing psoas abscesses, regardless of typical patient demographics or causative organisms.
- A presented flowchart offers a structured approach to the evaluation and management of both primary and secondary psoas abscesses, considering treatment success rates.