[Pyomyositis in Italy: report of a clinical case]

Pyomyositis is an infection of the striated muscle seen frequently in Africa but rarely in Western countries with a temperate climate. Over the last few years it has been observed with increasing frequency, especially in immunocompromised hosts. An unusual case of pyomyositis in a 65-year-old immunocompetent woman is described. The disease emerged during septicemia caused by Staphylococcus aureus. It was associated with pleuropneumonia and affected two different and opposite groups of muscles. Diabetes mellitus, a known predisposing factor, was diagnosed during the infection. The diagnosis of pyomyositis was based on microbiological cultures, computed tomography, and radio-labelled granulocyte scintigraphy. Follow-up until recovery was based on computed tomography. Surgical drainage of abscesses was avoided thanks to early diagnosis and specific antibiotic therapy.