Presentation and Investigation of Pediatric Bone and Joint Infections in the Pediatric Emergency Department

The objective of this study was to evaluate the presenting features of bone and joint infections with a view to identify distinguishing trends that will be useful for pediatric emergency departments. Methods We performed a retrospective review of patient records over a 12-year period in the pediatric emergency department of a large regional pediatric teaching center serving a diverse population. Results There were 88 cases of osteoarticular infections during the study period. Pain, fever, and impaired function were commonly reported, but overall, there was inconsistency in the presenting features. Inflammatory makers were sensitive tools, particularly in combination. When C-reactive protein, total white cell count, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were all abnormal, 98% of bone and joint infections were identified. Causative organisms were identified in only 38% of cases, mostly from cultures of synovial fluid and bone. Streptococcal organisms were significantly more likely to be isolated in children under 5 years than in children over 5 years (P =
Source: Pediatric Emergency Care - Category: Emergency Medicine Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research