[Pyomyositis in children--a diagnostic challenge!]

Abstract

This report describes two children with fever and musculoskeletal pain diagnosed as pyomyositis, an acute bacterial infection in skeletal muscles that produces diffuse inflammation and suppuration. The diagnosis is reported with increasing frequency in non-tropical areas. The condition should be kept in mind in cases of musculoskeletal pain, fever and general malaise, and MRI should be performed to verify the diagnosis. S. aureus is the most commonly responsible organism. Cure is usually achieved through relevant antibiotic therapy, combined with drainage in case of suppuration. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to a good prognosis.