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Hip involvement in childhood brucellosis
1King Saud University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.
Summary
Brucellosis in children often affects joints, particularly the hip, causing pain and limited movement. Early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach are key for effective treatment and preventing complications like avascular necrosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection with diverse clinical manifestations.
- Articular involvement is a significant feature of pediatric brucellosis.
- Distinguishing brucellosis from other causes of pediatric arthritis is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical features, management, and outcomes of pediatric brucellosis with articular involvement.
- To identify factors associated with poorer treatment response and complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 190 children diagnosed with brucellosis over 7.8 years.
- Analysis of demographic, clinical, laboratory, and treatment data.
- Assessment of joint involvement, complications, and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Seventy percent of children (36%) had articular involvement, most commonly the hip (18%) and knee.
- Painful limitation of movement was the predominant articular sign (80%).
- Hip involvement correlated with slower treatment response, longer hospital stays, and increased complications, including dislocation and avascular necrosis.
Conclusions:
- Brucellosis should be suspected in children from endemic areas presenting with fever and joint symptoms.
- Combination chemotherapy for 6-12 weeks is generally effective.
- A multidisciplinary approach is recommended for optimal management of pediatric brucellosis, especially with hip involvement.