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Hematogenous infantile infection presenting as osteomyelitis and septic arthritis: a case report

Savas P Deftereos1, Eleftheria Michailidou, Georgios K Karagiannakis

  • 1Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis (Dragana), 68100 Greece. sdefter@med.duth.gr

Cases Journal
|October 16, 2009
PubMed

Insights

A 6-month-old infant with knee swelling was diagnosed with septic arthritis caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Further imaging revealed a suprapatellar bursa abscess and osteomyelitis, requiring advanced management.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Musculoskeletal imaging
  • Orthopedic surgery

Background:

  • Septic arthritis is a joint infection that can rapidly destroy cartilage.
  • Staphylococcus aureus is a common bacterial cause of septic arthritis in infants.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term joint damage.

Observation:

  • A 6-month-old male infant presented with fever and left knee swelling.
  • Initial assessment revealed an inflammatory condition and soft tissue edema.
  • Joint fluid analysis identified Staphylococcus aureus, confirming septic arthritis.

Findings:

  • Inadequate response to initial treatment prompted MRI.
  • MRI revealed a suprapatellar bursa abscess and osteomyelitis.
  • Coexistence of septic arthritis and osteomyelitis was confirmed.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of advanced imaging in complex pediatric joint infections.
  • Prompt identification of concurrent osteomyelitis is vital for effective treatment.
  • Understanding the pathophysiology of combined septic arthritis and osteomyelitis aids in management strategies.

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