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Published on: April 7, 2015
Pyomyositis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae
S Lindsey Wong1, Evelyn Y Anthony, Avinash K Shetty
1Department of Pediatrics, Wake Forest University Health Sciences and Brenner Children's Hospital, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
Insights
Pneumococcal pyomyositis, a rare childhood infection, can mimic other conditions. This case highlights successful treatment of Streptococcus pneumoniae-induced pyomyositis with clindamycin.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Musculoskeletal infections
Background:
- Pyomyositis is a bacterial muscle infection, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
- Pneumococcal pyomyositis, caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, is exceptionally rare in children.
- Clinical presentation can be challenging, often mimicking hip septic arthritis or appendicitis.
Observation:
- A 12-year-old male presented with fever and severe right hip and abdominal pain.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed pyomyositis of the right hip.
- Blood cultures identified Streptococcus pneumoniae, susceptible to penicillin, ceftriaxone, and clindamycin.
Findings:
- The patient received a 3-week course of clindamycin.
- Successful treatment of pneumococcal pyomyositis was achieved.
- Early diagnosis and targeted antibiotic therapy are crucial.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare pathogens in pediatric pyomyositis.
- Prompt recognition and appropriate management, including potential surgical drainage, are vital for favorable outcomes.
- Highlights effective antibiotic choices for Streptococcus pneumoniae-induced pyomyositis.
Abstract:
Pyomyositis is an unusual but potentially serious disease in children. Staphylococcus aureus is the most commonly implicated pathogen, but pneumococcal pyomyositis is very rare. Clinical diagnosis of pyomyositis can be difficult often mimicking septic arthritis of the hip or appendicitis. We report a 12-year-old male with pyomyositis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae who presented with fever and severe right hip and abdominal pain. Magnetic resonance imaging of the right hip revealed the diagnosis of pyomyositis. Blood cultures grew Streptococcus pneumoniae, sensitive to penicillin, ceftriaxone, and clindamycin. He was successfully treated with a 3-week course of clindamycin. Early recognition, appropriate antibiotic therapy, and if indicated, drainage of the muscle abscess is critical to reduce morbidity and mortality.
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