[Circumscribed non-tuberculous osteomyelitis in children. Apropos of 31 cases]

Abstract

Over the last eight years (1975-1983) a total of 31 cases of circumscribed non-tuberculous osteomyelitis in children have been treated as against 21 cases of classical acute osteomyelitis, suggesting transformation of the mode of presentation of this disease. Lesions were located in the pelvis (8 cases), the calcaneum (3 cases) and the long bones (20 cases), the metaphysis being affected in the latter in 13 patients, the diaphysis in 4 and the epiphysis in three. Specific radiologic images for each location are defined. Clinical expression was subacute and signs of infection inconstant. Differential diagnosis is discussed in relation to each region involved, a positive diagnosis depending on clinical, biologic and radiologic findings, with the need for biopsy in case of doubt. The latter was necessary in 12 of the 31 children. Diagnosis was confirmed in all cases by the favorable outcome from treatment.