Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus Pyogenic Iliopsoas Abscesses: A Case Series from Jodhpur, India

Early recognition of iliopsoas abscess is important for limiting morbidity and mortality. Mycobacterium tuberculosis remains an important cause of iliopsoas abscess in developing countries and most patients are initiated on empirical anti-tubercular therapy. In this context, methicillin- sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) as a cause of iliopsoas abscess is rare in India. Four cases were diagnosed with pyogenic iliopsoas abscesses caused by MSSA. Half of the patients had a typical clinical triad of fever, difficulty in walking and backache. Primary iliopsoas abscesses were present in three patients. All patients were managed with percutaneous drainage and antibiotics with a favourable outcome. MSSA as a cause of primary iliopsoas abscesses is rare in India. Early diagnosis of microbial aetiology also minimizes the non-judicial use of antibiotics and anti-tubercular therapy.