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Osteomyelitis of the scapula with secondary septic arthritis of the shoulder joint

M M Obeidat1, A Omari

  • 1Department of Orthopaedics, King Abdullah University Hospital, Jordan University of Science and Technology, PO Box 2438, Irbid 21110, Jordan. obeidat74@yahoo.com

Singapore Medical Journal
|March 5, 2010
PubMed

Insights

A delayed diagnosis of scapular osteomyelitis and shoulder joint septic arthritis occurred in an infant due to concurrent severe infections. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for pediatric bone and joint infections.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Orthopedic surgery
  • Neonatology

Background:

  • Osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in infants are rare but serious conditions.
  • Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment and preventing long-term complications.
  • Septic arthritis of the glenohumeral joint is particularly uncommon and challenging to diagnose.

Observation:

  • A 7-month-old infant presented with delayed diagnosis of scapular osteomyelitis extending to the glenoid.
  • The condition led to secondary septic arthritis of the glenohumeral joint.
  • The infant also had bilateral lung abscesses requiring intensive care, diverting focus from the shoulder joint.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent shoulder joint arthrotomy, anterior pus drainage, and intravenous antibiotics.
  • Diagnosis was delayed due to the critical condition of concurrent infections and the rarity of shoulder septic arthritis.
  • A high index of suspicion is necessary for diagnosing pediatric septic shoulder arthritis.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering uncommon diagnoses in critically ill infants.
  • Emphasizes the need for a high index of suspicion for septic arthritis, even with other severe infections.
  • Underscores the challenges in diagnosing and managing pediatric bone and joint infections.

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