Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026
Multifocal Electroretinograms
Published on: December 4, 2011
Chronic Nonbacterial Osteomyelitis and Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis in Children
Yongdong Zhao1, Polly J Ferguson2
1Pediatric Rheumatology, Seattle Children's Hospital, University of Washington, MA 7.110, 4800 Sand Point Way Northeast, Seattle, WA 98105, USA.
Insights
Chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) is a rare pediatric immune disorder causing bone pain. Diagnosis relies on MRI, with treatments ranging from NSAIDs to cytokine inhibitors based on severity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) is an innate immune disorder primarily affecting children.
- It can manifest independently or as part of a broader syndrome.
- Clinical presentation includes bone pain, potentially with fever or localized swelling, posing diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of Chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO).
- To highlight diagnostic challenges and imaging modalities.
- To outline current treatment strategies for CNO.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on CNO.
- Analysis of diagnostic criteria and imaging findings, emphasizing MRI.
- Summary of therapeutic interventions based on disease severity.
Main Results:
- CNO is characterized by sterile osteomyelitis on biopsy, often with normal initial lab results.
- Radiographs may show osteolytic or sclerotic changes, but MRI is more sensitive for detection and monitoring.
- Treatment approaches vary, including NSAIDs, bisphosphonates, and cytokine inhibitors.
Conclusions:
- CNO is a complex pediatric inflammatory bone disease requiring advanced imaging for diagnosis.
- Early and accurate diagnosis using MRI is crucial for effective management.
- Treatment is tailored to individual disease severity, utilizing a range of anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory agents.
Abstract:
Chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) is an innate immune system disorder that predominantly affects children. It can present as part of a syndrome or in isolation. It presents as bone pain with or without fever or objective swelling at the site. It is difficult to diagnose. Laboratory studies can be normal, whereas a biopsy reveals sterile osteomyelitis. Osteolytic or sclerotic bone changes may be seen on radiographs. However, MRI is more sensitive for detecting CNO and is considered the gold standard for monitoring the disease. Treatment depends on disease severity and includes nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, bisphosphonates, and cytokine inhibitors.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
01:24Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
01:17Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
01:29Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
01:25Chronic Kidney Disease I: Introduction
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Smoking is a primary risk factor for COPD, with over 80% of patients having a history of it. Patients typically experience progressive dyspnea or labored breathing, frequent coughing, and recurrent pulmonary infections. Many eventually succumb to respiratory failure, characterized by...