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Posterior Approach for Debridement of the Psoas Abscess
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Posterior Approach for Debridement of the Psoas Abscess

Published on: March 2, 2020

[Psoas abscess as a chicken pox complication]

Jorge E Larcamon1, Gabriela Juanco, Lionel A Alvarez

  • 1Servicio de Pediatría, HIGA Luisa C. de Gandulfo. jlarcamon@hotmail.com

Archivos Argentinos De Pediatria
|June 15, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Chicken pox can lead to rare bacterial infections like psoas abscess. This case highlights a difficult-to-diagnose complication in a child with community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Chicken pox (varicella) is a common viral illness, typically benign and self-limiting.
  • Bacterial superinfections can occur due to skin barrier disruption and associated immunosuppression.
  • Psoas abscess is an uncommon and diagnostically challenging condition with vague symptoms.

Observation:

  • A 5-year-old girl presented with fever, seizure, and subsequent left leg immobility and pain after chicken pox.
  • Clinical presentation included lumbar, gluteal, and hip pain, preventing ambulation.
  • Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) scan confirmed the diagnosis upon hospital admission.

Findings:

  • The causative agent identified was community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA).
  • The patient experienced a febrile convulsion but recovered neurologically.
  • The diagnosis of psoas abscess was established via CAT scan.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering rare bacterial complications following varicella infection.
  • Early diagnosis and appropriate management, including surgical drainage and antibiotics, are crucial for favorable outcomes.
  • Highlights the potential for CA-MRSA to cause deep-seated infections in pediatric patients.

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