Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis of the pelvis in childhood: Diagnostic clues and pitfalls

Abstract

Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis (AHOM) of the pelvis is a rare form of childhood osteomyelitis. Prompted by a recent case, we reviewed the 146 reported cases of pelvic AHOM published since 1966. Classical childhood AHOM of tubular bones usually occurs in older children (mean age, 8.1 y) as opposed to younger children (aged 2-5 y). It is more common in boys than in girls (male to female ratio = 1.5:1). The most common site is the ilium (40%), followed by the ischium (28%) and the pubis (15%). In contrast to AHOM of the long bones, trauma is an uncommon antecedent event in pelvic AHOM. The pain in pelvic AHOM may be referred to the hip, thigh, or abdomen, often leading to misdiagnosis. On average, the correct diagnosis is delayed for 12 days. Such delays have resulted in a permanent disability in 3.4% of the cases. If diagnosed and treated promptly, uneventful recovery can be anticipated in all patients. This case history and review of the literature may facilitate early recognition of pelvic AHOM by primary care physicians, as well as by pediatric or orthopedic specialists.