Neonatal osteomyelitis: A case series

Parveen Kumar; Ankur Bhardwaj; Anil Agarwal; Divyamedha Agarwal

doi:10.47338/jns.v12.1231

Author(s)

Parveen Kumar Department of Paediatric Surgery, Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, New Delhi, India

Ankur Bhardwaj Department of Paediatric Surgery, Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, New Delhi, India

Anil Agarwal Department of Orthopedics, Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, New Delhi, India

Divyamedha Agarwal Department of Anaesthesia, Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, New Delhi, India

Abstract

Background: Osteomyelitis in the neonatal age group is a rare entity. Its presentation and progression are quite different from osteomyelitis in adults, adolescents, and even children. Due to vague clinical features and the late appearance of changes on X-rays, the diagnosis often gets missed. Additionally, there is a risk of permanent damage to bones and joints. Case Presentation: Our experience of 3 such interesting cases showed the diagnostic dilemma involved in neonatal osteomyelitis. All 3 cases presented as cellulitis or subcutaneous abscess initially as x-ray changes appeared late (7-10 days after onset of disease). All the babies needed surgical debridement. The average duration of antibiotics given was 35.5 days. No residual sequelae were reported for up to 2 years. Conclusion: Neonatal osteomyelitis needs a high index of suspicion especially in late-onset neonatal sepsis or prolonged septicemia. This case series emphasizes the need for a low threshold for suspicion and early treatment to avoid permanent disability

Publication Details

Page(s) 1-22

DOI 10.47338/jns.v12.1231

Published Journal: Journal of Neonatal Surgery, Volume: 12, Issue: 1, Year: 2023

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Keywords

Neonate, Sepsis, osteomyelitis, Septic arthritis, Bones