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Fusidic acid in staphylococcal bone and joint infection
1Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
The Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
|February 1, 1990
Summary
Fusidic acid is effective for treating bone and joint infections, particularly staphylococcal infections like osteomyelitis and septic arthritis. It is well-tolerated orally and serves as a valuable adjunct to surgery for chronic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Bone and joint infections pose significant treatment challenges.
- Staphylococcal infections are common causes of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis.
- Fusidic acid has a long history in treating these conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy and safety of fusidic acid in bone and joint infections.
- To evaluate its role in acute and chronic osteomyelitis and septic arthritis.
- To consider its use in other orthopedic contexts.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical experience with fusidic acid over 25 years.
- Analysis of its use in various staphylococcal bone and joint infections.
- Consideration of concurrent antibiotic therapy and adjunctive surgical use.
Main Results:
- Fusidic acid, often combined with other antibiotics, is effective against staphylococcal infections.
- It is a valuable adjunct to surgery for chronic osteomyelitis.
- Oral fusidic acid is generally well-tolerated, with rare gastrointestinal side effects.
Conclusions:
- Fusidic acid is a proven treatment for staphylococcal bone and joint infections.
- Its role as an adjunct to surgery in chronic osteomyelitis is significant.
- Recent data support its use in various orthopedic situations.
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