[Discitis in children. Description of the condition illustrated by two case reports]

K Oymar1, R Svihus

  • 1Barneavdelingen, Sentralsjukehuset i Rogaland, Stavanger.

Insights

Childhood discitis, a non-infectious disc inflammation, presents with varied symptoms like back pain. Early diagnosis via MRI is key, as initial radiology may be negative, avoiding unnecessary treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Orthopedics
  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Discitis in children is typically a self-limiting, non-infectious inflammation of the intervertebral disc.
  • Symptoms are variable, including back pain, gait disturbances, crying, and irritability.

Observation:

  • Initial radiological findings can be negative, leading to diagnostic delays.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can aid in early diagnosis.

Findings:

  • The etiology, symptoms, and treatment of childhood discitis are discussed.
  • Two pediatric cases are presented to illustrate the condition.

Implications:

  • Awareness of discitis is crucial to prevent unnecessary investigations and treatments.
  • Early MRI diagnosis can expedite appropriate management.
  • This condition highlights the importance of considering non-infectious inflammatory causes of back pain in children.

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