Chronic recurrent osteomyelitis: A diagnostic and therapeutic challenge

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rheumatology
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Pediatric Pathology

Background:

• Chronic recurrent osteomyelitis (CRO) is a rare condition characterized by aseptic inflammatory bone lesions.
• Diagnosis can be challenging due to its similarity to infectious or tumorous conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical features of CRO in children.
• To assess the treatment response to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in pediatric CRO patients.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 5 pediatric patients diagnosed with CRO over 8 years.
• Diagnosis was based on clinical, laboratory, histological, and imaging findings (CT, MRI).

Main Results:

• The majority of patients (80%) were male, with a mean age of 13 years.
• The clavicle and tibia were most commonly affected.
• All patients showed a good treatment response to NSAIDs, with a mean recurrence at 5.25 months.

Conclusions:

• CRO diagnosis presents a significant challenge.
• NSAIDs are a promising initial therapeutic option for pediatric CRO.