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Pubic osteomyelitis due to anaerobic bacteria
Archives of Internal Medicine
|April 1, 1984
Summary
Anaerobic bacteria can cause pubic bone osteomyelitis, often misdiagnosed as sterile osteitis pubis. Improved specimen handling may reveal more anaerobic infections, guiding effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Osteomyelitis of the pubic bone is uncommon, with "sterile" osteitis pubis frequently cited in literature.
- The role of anaerobic bacteria in pubic bone osteomyelitis is poorly understood and infrequently reported.
Observation:
- Two cases of pubic osteomyelitis caused by anaerobic bacteria are presented.
- Two previously reported cases are discussed, suggesting a potential underdiagnosis of anaerobic osteomyelitis pubis.
Findings:
- Most cases of "sterile" osteitis pubis may be attributable to anaerobic bacteria.
- Failure to isolate anaerobic bacteria is likely due to inadequate specimen collection, transport, and culture techniques.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of appropriate anaerobic specimen handling in diagnosing pubic bone infections.
- Suggests revised diagnostic and treatment strategies for osteitis pubis, considering anaerobic bacterial etiology.