Primary sternal osteomyelitis
Patricia Rodríguez Lorenzo1, Begoña Fernández Martínez1, Marta Pérez Alba1
1Department of Pediatrics; Hospital Universitario de Cabueñes, Gijón, Spain.
Archivos Argentinos De Pediatria
|February 1, 2023
Summary
Primary sternal osteomyelitis, a rare childhood infection, presents non-specifically, delaying diagnosis. Early consideration in children with chest pain and fever is crucial for timely antibiotic treatment and recovery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Osteomyelitis
- Thoracic Infections
Background:
- Primary sternal osteomyelitis is exceedingly rare in pediatric populations, with limited documented cases.
- Non-specific clinical signs frequently lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases of primary sternal osteomyelitis are presented.
- Symptoms included fever, malaise, chest pain, and reluctance to lie down; one case showed pre-sternal erythema.
- Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels were noted in both patients.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was confirmed via imaging studies.
- Methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus was identified in one patient's blood culture.
- Both children recovered fully with antibiotic therapy.
Implications:
- Sternal osteomyelitis should be considered in the pediatric differential diagnosis for chest pain.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for favorable outcomes.
- Increased awareness can reduce diagnostic delays in this rare condition.
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