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[Psoas abscess, a rare and forgotten entity. Report of 6 cases]
J R Blanco1, M Múgica, J Salcedo
1Servicio de Medicina Interna, Complejo Hospitalario San Millán-San Pedro, Logroño.
Abstract:
The psoas abscess is an entity, some times forgotten in our daily clinical practice. The gram-positive microorganisms are the most frequent, and S. aureus is the most important pathogen. We present a retrospective study of six cases. In our revision, five patients were women (83.3%), and one man (16.6%), with a median age of 65.83 years. The associated pathology were vertebral in four patients (66.6%), and urologic in two of them. The main symptoms were fever and lumbar pain. All the patients were diagnosed by CT. The correct identification of the microorganisms, and the prompt use of the antibiotherapy associated to surgery, helped to a total recuperation of this patients.
Insights
Psoas abscesses, often overlooked, are frequently caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Prompt antibiotic therapy and surgery lead to full recovery in patients with this condition.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Microbiology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Psoas abscesses are uncommon intra-abdominal infections that can be challenging to diagnose.
- Gram-positive bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, are the most common causative agents.
- Associated pathologies often include vertebral and urologic conditions.
Observation:
- A retrospective study reviewed six cases of psoas abscess.
- The patient cohort consisted of five women and one man, with a median age of 65.83 years.
- Common symptoms included fever and lumbar pain, with vertebral and urologic conditions as frequent comorbidities.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) was the primary diagnostic tool for all patients.
- Accurate identification of causative microorganisms was crucial for treatment.
- Prompt administration of appropriate antibiotic therapy combined with surgical intervention facilitated recovery.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering psoas abscess in the differential diagnosis of lumbar pain and fever.
- Emphasizes the role of Staphylococcus aureus as a key pathogen.
- Underscores the effectiveness of a combined medical and surgical approach for favorable patient outcomes.