Osteomyelitis of the patella in a 12-year-old boy: A case report

Osteomyelitis is continuously becoming less common. Although the patella is rarely affected, the illness most frequently affects the long bones. The diagnosis is frequently postponed because to this rarity and the varied clinical presentation.

A 12-year-old boy patient with a delayed diagnosis of patella osteomyelitis is the subject of this case study. With leukocytosis, elevated acute phase reactants and radiography showing lytic lesion with minimal sequestrum of the patellar bone was treated by irrigation and debridement plus intravenous ceftriaxone. Histopathologic result was suggestive of osteomyelitis. At 6 months follow-up the patient knee joint was in full range of motion and follow-up radiography showed healed patellar bone.

The treatment plan and diagnostic processes are explained. A thorough literature evaluation of the papers that are currently accessible on pediatric osteomyelitis of the patella is also provided.

Careful physical examination and imaging study are helpful in distinguishing patellar osteomyelitis from other common pediatric diseases of knee.