Culture-negative chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis in a two months old girl: a case report

Background Previous articles have focused on the diagnosis and treatment of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis. Here, we present a case of chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis in a 2-month-old girl. The diagnostic procedure was unusual and difficult due to negative culture results. Case presentation A girl aged 2 months and 23 days had fever and swelling in her right lower leg for 7 days. On the basis of her medical history, physical, and histological examination results; and radiologic and magnetic resonance imaging findings, a diagnosis of chronic osteomyelitis was made. The patient underwent surgical treatment and was discharged successfully. The patient showed good recovery and no sequelae at the 12-month follow-up. Conclusion Hematogenous osteomyelitis in babyhood is different from that at any other age. Hematogenous osteomyelitis-related bone destruction in babyhood is more serious and occurs faster. The transition from acute hematogenous osteomyelitis to chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis takes only 7 days. To the best of our knowledge, this chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis patient is the youngest ever reported.

Automated summary

Hematogenous osteomyelitis in infancy is unique in its severity and rapid progression, with the transition from acute to chronic form occurring within just 7 days. The presented case of chronic hematogenous osteomyelitis in a 2-month-old girl is the youngest reported case to date.