Bone and joint infection complicated with sepsis in neonates and infants under three months of age

Abstract Objective: Studies focusing on bone and joint infections (BJIs) in young infants are rare. Some cases of BJI are accompanied by sepsis. This study aimed to identify the clinical and bacteriological features of sepsis in neonates and young infants with BJIs. Methods: Neonates and infants younger than 3 months diagnosed with BJI in the present institution from 2014 to 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient characteristics, clinical data, and outcomes were documented and compared between those with and without sepsis. Results: Twenty-five patients with a mean age of 34.8 days were included. Nine BJI cases had concomitant sepsis (group A), and 16 had BJI without sepsis (group B). Within group A, staphylococcus aureus was the major pathogenic germ (5 cases, of which 4 were of the methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) type). There was no statistical difference in male-to-female ratio, age, history of hospitalization, anemia, birth asphyxia, peripheral leukocyte counts, C-reactive protein on admission, and sequelae between groups. Univariate analyses indicated a significant difference in the incidence of septic arthritis (SA) combined with osteomyelitis (OM) (88.9% vs 37.5%), congenital deformities (44.4% vs 0%), and mean duration of symptoms (2.83 days vs 9.21 days) in comparisons between groups A and B. Conclusion: Staphylococcus aureus is the main pathogenic bacteria in BJI cases complicated with sepsis in neonates and young infants. Among infants younger than 3 months diagnosed with BJI, those with concurrent SA and OM, MRSA infection, or congenital deformities are more likely to develop sepsis.

Radical surgical approach to chronic suppurative osteomyelitis: Case report / Abordaje quirúrgico radical de una osteomielitis crónica supurativa: reporte de caso

Abstract Diabetes mellitus is a systemic condition potentially related to an increased risk of progression of various infections such as chronic osteomyelitis by accelerating the inflammatory process with bone tissue necrosis and suppuration. Therefore, if there is no proper management of these infections, they can be life-threatening as they spread to deeper spaces in the head and neck. We describe the case of a 52-year-old male patient with a history of diabetes mellitus and grade III osteoarthritis who was diagnosed with chronic suppurative osteomyelitis of the mandible. He underwent a multidisciplinary surgical intervention in which he underwent a hemimandibulectomy with immediate mandibular reconstruction. The present case highlights the importance of early and radical treatment of patients with chronic suppurative osteomyelitis of the mandible and systemic comorbidities. In addition, this case presents a review of diabetes mellitus and the risk of developing odontogenic infections and complications when invading deeper spaces in the head and neck. Therefore, in this population, careful planning is required for early surgical and pharmacological treatment.

Resumen La diabetes mellitus es una condición sistémica potencialmente relacionada con un mayor riesgo de progresión de diversas infecciones como la osteomielitis crónica al acelerar el proceso inflamatorio con necrosis del tejido óseo y supuración. Por lo tanto, si no hay un manejo adecuado de estas infecciones pueden ser potencialmente mortales al llegar a propagarse a espacios más profundos de la cabeza y cuello. Describimos el caso de un paciente varón de 52 años con antecedentes de diabetes mellitus y osteoartrosis grado III a quien se le diagnosticó de osteomielitis crónica supurativa mandibular. Se le realizó una intervención quirúrgica multidisciplinaria en la cual se le realizó una hemimandibulectomía con reconstrucción mandibular inmediata. El presente caso destaca la importancia del tratamiento temprano y radical de los pacientes con osteomielitis mandibular crónica supurativa y comorbilidades sistémicas. Además, en este caso se presenta una revisión sobre la diabetes mellitus y el riesgo de desarrollar infecciones odontogénicas y complicaciones al invadir espacios más profundos de la cabeza y cuello. Por lo tanto, en esta población se requiere de una planificación cuidadosa para realizar un tratamiento quirúrgico y farmacológico temprano.

"Penumbra sign" in knee pain: a case of distal femur osteomyelitis

"Penumbra sign" is a characteristic finding in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of Brodie's abscess, a rare variant of subacute osteomyelitis. We aimed to discuss the imaging finding penumbra sign that will help in the diagnosis of osteomyelitis and may be useful to clinicians in differential diagnosis. A 26-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with complaints of pain and limping in the right knee that did not go away. He had a history of arthroscopic debridement and percutaneous fixation surgery due to osteochondral fragment 3 years ago. There were no additional findings in the patient's vital parameters, physical examination, and medical history. X-ray imaging revealed two screws in the distal femur and a well-defined sclerotic rim surrounding a radiolucent lesion anterior to the screws. MRI revealed a lesion in the distal femoral metaphysis with low-density fluid and hyperintense granulation tissue surrounding it. After surgical abscess drainage and local debridement, bone cement was placed in the resulting cavity. Teicoplanin treatment was started. The patient was discharged and complete recovery was achieved in the second month. The diagnosis of osteomyelitis is often missed or confused with bone tumors in non-traumatic cases presenting with persistent bone pain. MRI imaging is frequently used in differential diagnosis, and detection of characteristic imaging signs such as the penumbra sign accelerates the diagnosis. In this context, emergency department clinicians, in particular, should be cautious and not forget that early treatment can be started by recognizing these signs.

Osteomielitis, perimplantitis y fractura vertical radicular mandibular en un paciente con fibromialgia: presentación de caso / Osteomyelitis, Peri-implantitis and Mandibular Root Vertical Fracture in a Patient with Fibromyalgia: Case Report / Osteomielite, peri-implantite e fratura vertical da raiz mandibular em um paciente com fibromialgia: relato de caso

Introducción: se considera la osteomielitis mandibular un proceso patológico poco frecuente. La mayor parte de los casos presentados involucran pacientes con osteorradionecrosis y aquellos pacientes con ingesta de algunos medicamentos antirresortivos. El objetivo es informar un caso inusual de una paciente con osteomielitis, perimplantitis y fractura vertical radicular con antecedentes de fibromialgia. Presentación del caso: mujer de 70 años de edad, no fumadora ni consumidora de alcohol, que acudió con un dolor posteroinferior izquierdo de un año de evolución. Presentaba una profundidad de son-deo mayor de 12 mm en el órgano dental (od) 37, sangrado a la palpación, dolor y movilidad grado ii. En el od 36 fue notoria la exposición clínica del tercio superior del implante dental, sin movilidad, con una profundidad de 4 mm. El tratamiento consistió en una exodoncia atraumática del od 37, donde se identificó una fractura radicular vertical. Discusión: actualmente, los implantes dentales permiten restablecer la salud bucodental. Sin embargo, ellos también pueden inducir una osteomielitis en los maxilares. La terapia instaurada redujo ostensiblemente la morbilidad del implante dental implicado y regeneró la zona intervenida.

Introduction: Mandibular osteomyelitis is considered a rare pathological process. Most of the cases pre-sented involve patients with osteoradionecrosis and those patients with intake of some antiresorptive drugs. The objective of this report is to report an unusual case of a patient with osteomyelitis, peri-im-plantitis and vertical root fracture with a history of fibromyalgia. Case presentation: A 70-year-old female patient, non-smoker or alcohol consumer, who presented with lower left postero-pain of one year's evolution. She presented a probing depth greater than 12 mm in dental organ (od) 37, bleeding on palpation, pain and grade II mobility. At the level of do 36, the clinical exposure of the upper third of the dental implant was notorious, without mobility, with a depth of 4 mm. The treatment consisted of an atraumatic extraction of do 37, where a vertical root fracture was identified. Discussion: Currently, dental implants make it possible to restore oral health. However, they can also induce osteomyelitis in the jaws. The established therapy ostensibly reduced the morbidity of the involved dental implant and regeneration of the intervened area

Introdução: a osteomielite mandibular é considerada um processo patológico raro. A maioria dos casos apresentados envolve pacientes com osteorradionecrose e aqueles pacientes com uso de alguns medi-camentos antirreabsortivos. O objetivo deste relato é relatar um caso incomum de um paciente com osteomielite, periimplantite e fratura radicular vertical com histórico de fibromialgia. Apresentação do caso: paciente do sexo feminino, 70 anos, não fumante ou etilista, que apresentou dor póstero-infe-rior esquerda com um ano de evolução. Apresentava profundidade de sondagem maior que 12 mm no órgão dentário (od) 37, sangramento à palpação, dor e mobilidade grau ii. Ao nível de do 36, foi notória a exposição clínica do terço superior do implante dentário, sem mobilidade, com profundidade de 4 mm. O tratamento consistiu em uma extração atraumática de do 37, onde foi identificada uma fratura vertical da raiz. Discussão: atualmente, os implantes dentários possibilitam o restabelecimento da saúde bucal. No entanto, eles também podem induzir osteomielite nos maxilares. A terapia instituída reduziu ostensivamente a morbidade do implante dentário envolvido e a regeneração da área intervencionada

Osteomielitis crónica no bacteriana. A propósito del caso de una adolescente

Introducción: la osteomielitis crónica no bacteriana (CNO) es una enfermedad autoinflamatoria ósea y se manifiesta con un amplio espectro clínico, presentándose con afectación monofocal o multifocal. Dado que no es siempre multifocal o recurrente, o ambas, fue propuesto que CNO se utilice como un término que comprenda a todas las presentaciones y la osteomielitis multifocal crónica recurrente (CRMO) se utilice para formas recurrentes y multifocales. Objetivo: presentar un caso clínico inédito, de baja prevalencia a nivel mundial, en una adolescente portadora de una enfermedad autoinflamatoria ósea que planteó desafíos diagnósticos y terapéuticos. Descripción: adolescente, mujer, 11 años, previamente sana que se presentó con dorso-lumbalgia invalidante de un mes de evolución, sin otra sintomatología asociada. Tras varias consultas en emergencia, ingresa a planta de internación pediátrica del Hospital Central de las Fuerzas Armadas (HCFFAA) en octubre de 2021. Resonancia nuclear magnética (RNM) de columna evidencia foco de edema óseo en cuerpo de T11, hemograma normal; VES 48 mm/h, ANA, anti-DNA, FR y HLA B27 negativos. Resultados: luego de descartar procesos infecciosos, oncohematológicos y una vez obtenido el resultado de una biopsia por punción ósea que evidenciaba elementos inflamatorios, se llegó al diagnóstico de CNO en el mes de febrero de 2022, tiempo récord comparando este caso con la literatura internacional. El diagnóstico de esta entidad clínica promedio a nivel mundial es de 12 meses.

Summary: Introduction: chronic Non-Bacterial Osteomyelitis (CNO) is an autoinflammatory bone disease that presents a broad clinical spectrum with monofocal or multifocal involvement. Since it is not always multifocal and/or recurrent, it was proposed that CNO be used as a term that encompasses all presentations and Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis (CRMO) for recurrent and multifocal forms. Objective: to present an unprecedented low prevalence clinical case of an adolescent carrier of an autoinflammatory bone disease that posed diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Description: a previously healthy female adolescent, 11 years old presented disabling lower back pain for a month without other associated symptoms. After several emergency consultations, she was admitted to the pediatric hospitalization at the Armed Forces Hospital (HCFFAA) in October 2021. A spine MRI showed a T11 body bone edema focus, normal blood count; ESR 48 mm/h, ANA, Anti DNA, RF and negative HLA B27. Results: after ruling out infectious and oncohematological processes, and once the result of a bone puncture biopsy was obtained, which showed inflammatory elements, an ONC diagnosis was made in February 2022, a record time comparing this case with the international literature. The average diagnosis of this clinical condition worldwide is 12 months.

Introdução: a Osteomielite Crônica Não Bacteriana (CNO) é uma doença óssea autoinflamatória, manifestando-se com amplo espectro clínico, apresentando-se com acometimento monofocal ou multifocal. Como nem sempre é multifocal e/ou recorrente, foi proposto que CNO seja usado como um termo que engloba todas as apresentações e Osteomielite Multifocal Recorrente Crônica (OMC) e que seja usado para formas recorrentes e multifocais. Objetivo: apresentar um caso clínico inédito, de baixa prevalência mundial, no caso de uma adolescente portadora de uma doença óssea autoinflamatória que representou desafios diagnósticos e terapêuticos. Descrição: adolescente do sexo feminino, 11 anos, previamente saudável, apresentava há um mês dorso-lombalgia incapacitante sem outros sintomas associados. Após várias consultas de urgência, foi internada na enfermaria pediátrica do Hospital Central das Forças Armadas (HCFFAA) em outubro de 2021. RM da coluna mostra foco de edema ósseo no corpo de T11, hemograma normal; ESR 48 mm/h, ANA, Anti DNA, RF e HLA B27 negativos. Resultados: após a exclusão de processos infecciosos e onco-hematológicos e obtido o resultado de uma biópsia por punção óssea, que evidenciou elementos inflamatórios, o diagnóstico de CNO foi feito em fevereiro de 2022, tempo recorde comparando este caso com a literatura internacional. A média de diagnóstico dessa entidade clínica no mundo é de 12 meses.

Comportamiento de la osteomielitis en pacientes pediátricos

Introducción: La osteomielitis es una infección ósea, que afecta con frecuencia a pacientes en edades pediátricas, con comportamiento variado en dependencia de la vía de llegada al hueso, tipo de germen y respuesta del huésped. Objetivo: Describir el comportamiento de un grupo de pacientes pediátricos con osteomielitis. Método: Se realizó estudio observacional descriptivo en 39 pacientes atendidos en el Hospital Pediátrico Provincial "Dr. Eduardo Agramonte Piña" de la ciudad de Camagüey, en el periodo comprendido desde el primero de enero de 2018 al 31 de diciembre del año 2022, y un total de 60 meses con diagnóstico de osteomielitis. Resultados: De los 39 pacientes investigados predominó el sexo masculino sobre el femenino (2,2:1). La edad promedio fue de 9 años. El promedio de estadía hospitalaria fue de 14,8 días. Las zonas más afectadas fueron las manos, el fémur y tibia distal. Predominó el tratamiento quirúrgico (2,2:1) con relación al conservador. La vía hematógena de llegada al hueso fue la más frecuente en el 86,4 % de los casos. El paso a la cronicidad fue la complicación más encontrada (el 33 %). El germen aislado con mayor frecuencia fue el Staphylococcus aureus(en el 85 % de los enfermos). Los antimicrobianos más indicados fueron la cefazolina, amikacina y fosfocina. Conclusiones: Los resultados obtenidos en la investigación aportan elementos importantes desde el punto de vista epidemiológico en pacientes pediátricos que sufren de osteomielitis, lo que permite implementar estrategias de diagnósticas y terapéuticas en este grupo de pacientes.

Introduction: Osteomyelitis is an infection in the bone, most frequently affecting patients in pediatric ages, with a variety of behavior on how to reach the bone, type of germ and host response. Objective: To describe the behavior of a group of pediatric patients affected with osteomyelitis. Method: A descriptive observational study was conducted in 39 patients attended at the Hospital Provincial Pediátrico Dr. Eduardo Agramonte Piña in the city of Camagüey, from January 1 2018 to December 31 2022. Patients diagnosed with osteomyelitis throughout 60 months in total. Results: Of the 39 patients studied, the male sex predominated over the female (2.2 to 1). The average age was 9 years old. The average lenght of hospital stay was 14.8 days. The most affected areas were the hands, femur and distal tibia. Surgical treatment predominated (2.2 to 1) in relation to conservative treatment. In the 86.4% of cases, hematogenous osteomyelitis was the most frequent infection. The transition to chronic osteomyelitis was the most common complication (33%). The most common isolated germ was staphylococcus aureus (in 85 % of the patients). The most indicated antimicrobials agents were cefazolin, amikacin and fostomycin (Fosfocin). Conclusions: The results of this research provided some important elements base on the epidemiological point of view for pediatric patients with osteomyelitis, also allowed the implementation of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in this group of patients.

Introdução: A osteomielite é uma infeção óssea, que afecta frequentemente afecta frequentemente doentes do grupo etário pediátrico, com um comportamento variado, dependendo da via de entrada no osso, do tipo de germe e da resposta do hospedeiro. Objectivo: Mostrar o comportamento de um grupo de doentes pediátricos com osteomielite. Método: Foi realizado um estudo observacional descritivo em 39 pacientes tratados no Hospital Pediátrico Provincial Dr. Eduardo Agramonte Piña, na cidade de Camagüey, no período de 1 de janeiro de 2018 a 31 de dezembro de 2022, e um total de 60 meses com diagnóstico de osteomielite. Resultados: Dos 39 pacientes investigados, o sexo masculino predominou sobre o feminino (2,2 para 1). A idade média foi de 9 anos. A média de permanência hospitalar foi de 14,8 dias. As regiões mais acometidas foram as mãos, o fêmur e a tíbia distal. O tratamento cirúrgico predominou (2,2 para 1) sobre o tratamento conservador. A via hematogénica para o osso foi a mais frequente em 86,4% dos casos. A transição para a cronicidade é a complicação mais frequentemente encontrada (33%). O germe mais frequentemente isolado foi o Staphylococcus aureus (em 85% dos doentes). Os antimicrobianos mais frequentemente indicados foram a cefazolina, a amicacina e a fosfocina. Conclusões: Os resultados obtidos na pesquisa fornecem elementos importantes do ponto de vista epidemiológico em pacientes pediátricos portadores de osteomielite, permitindo a implementação de estratégias diagnósticas e terapêuticas neste grupo de pacientes.

Absceso de Brodie en la clavícula: una forma poco frecuente de presentación / Brodie abscess in the clavicle: an uncommon presentation

La osteomielitis (OM) se define como la inflamación ósea de origen infeccioso. La forma aguda es frecuente en la edad pediátrica. El absceso de Brodie es un tipo de osteomielitis subaguda, históricamente con baja incidencia, pero que actualmente se presenta un aumento de la misma. De poca repercusión clínica, con pruebas de laboratorio inespecíficas y estudios radiológicos de difícil interpretación, es crucial la sospecha diagnóstica. Se asemeja a procesos neoplásicos, benignos o malignos. Recae en la experiencia del profesional realizar el diagnóstico adecuado. El tratamiento consiste en antibioticoterapia, tanto parenteral como por vía oral, y eventualmente drenaje quirúrgico. Presentamos una paciente sana que consultó por una tumoración en topografía de clavícula izquierda de 3 meses de evolución. Se realizó diagnóstico de absceso de Brodie, inició tratamiento y se obtuvo una buena respuesta. Resulta imprescindible tener un alto índice de sospecha de esta entidad para no someter al paciente a estudios, pruebas invasivas o tratamientos erróneos, y evitar secuelas a futuro.

Osteomyelitis is defined as an inflammation of the bone caused by infection. Acute osteomyelitis is common in pediatrics. A Brodie abscess is a type of subacute osteomyelitis, with a historically low incidence; however, its incidence is currently increasing. Given its little clinical impact, with non-specific laboratory tests and radiological studies of difficult interpretation, diagnostic suspicion is crucial. It resembles neoplasms, either benign or malignant. An adequate diagnosis falls on the health care provider's experience. Treatment consists of antibiotics, both parenteral and oral, with potential surgical drainage. Here we describe the case of a healthy female patient with a tumor found in the topography of the left clavicle 3 months before. She was diagnosed with Brodie abscess; treatment was started with a good response. A high index of suspicion of Brodie abscess is critical to avoid invasive tests and studies or inadequate treatments, and to prevent future sequelae.

Chronic Bi-Maxillary Osteomyelitis Caused by Actinomycetes in a Patient with Severe COVID-19 / Osteomyelitis bi-maxilar crónica causada por Actinomycetes en un paciente con COVID-19 severo

Abstract Osteomyelitis is defined as the inflammation of the either medullary, cortical, or cancellous bone, including nerves and blood vessels, causing necrosis and bone sequestrum formation; this condition has become a rare pathology, and odontogenic infections are considered the most frequent causal factor. This case shows a patient with bi-maxillary osteomyelitis caused by Actinomyces spp, which was worsened for severe COVID-19 infection. Patient was submitted at surgery as, amplified total bilateral maxillectomy through the surgical technique Weber-Fergusson, and prolonged use of combination of antibiotics, achieved a good recovery. Two years later follow- up, the patient no show imaging or clinical evidence of the infection of osteomyelitis. The present case shows an interesting relationship between a rare infection and its association with COVID-19.

Resumen La osteomielitis se define como la inflamación del hueso medular, cortical o esponjoso, incluyendo nervios y vasos sanguíneos, causando necrosis y formación de secuestro óseo; esta condición es una patología rara, y las infecciones odontogénicas son consideradas como el factor causal más frecuente. En este caso, se muestra un paciente con osteomielitis bi-maxilar causada por Actinomyces spp, la cual empeoró por la infección de COVID-19 severo. El paciente fue sometido a una cirugía, maxilectomía bilateral total amplificada, a través de la técnica quirúrgica de Weber- Fergusson, y el uso prolongado de una combinación de antibióticos, logrando una buena recuperación. A los 2 años de seguimiento, el paciente no mostró evidencia clínica o imagenológica de la infección de osteomielitis. El presente caso muestra una interesante relación entre una infección rara y su asociación con COVID-19.

Osteomielitis primaria de esternón / Primary sternal osteomyelitis

La osteomielitis primaria de esternón es muy infrecuente en niños, con menos de 100 casos publicados hasta la actualidad. Su presentación clínica es a menudo inespecífica, lo que causa un retraso en el diagnóstico. Se presentan dos nuevos casos de osteomielitis primaria de esternón. Ambos referían un cuadro de fiebre, malestar general, dolor torácico y rechazo del decúbito, con eritema preesternal en uno de los casos. La velocidad de sedimentación globular y la proteína C-reactiva estaban elevadas en ambos casos. El diagnóstico se confirmó mediante estudios de imagen y en un caso se aisló Staphylococcus aureus sensible a meticilina en el hemocultivo. Ambos se recuperaron sin complicaciones con tratamiento antibiótico. Debe tenerse en cuenta la osteomielitis primaria de esternón en el diagnóstico diferencial del dolor torácico, especialmente si se acompaña de fiebre, signos inflamatorios locales, intolerancia al decúbito o elevación de reactantes de fase aguda.

Primary sternal osteomyelitis is very rare in children, with less than 100 cases published to date. Its clinical presentation is often non-specific, which results in a diagnostic delay. Here we describe 2 new cases of primary sternal osteomyelitis. Both referred fever, malaise, chest pain, and refusal to lie down, with pre-sternal erythema in one of the cases. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein values were high in both cases. The diagnosis was confirmed by imaging studies; methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in the blood culture of one of them. Both recovered without complications with antibiotic treatment. Primary sternal osteomyelitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chest pain, especially if accompanied by fever, local inflammatory signs, intolerance to lying down, or increased acute phase reactants.

Pelvic Ewing Sarcoma: The Great Mimicker / Sarcoma de Ewing pélvico: o grande imitador

Abstract Ewing sarcoma is the most common malignant bone tumor of the pelvis in children and young adults. Even with aggressive treatment, its survival rate is amongst the poorest. Classical presentation may not be the rule. It may simulate clinically, imagiologically and histopathologically other nonmalignant entities. Therefore, its suspicion should not be overlooked. We report two cases of pelvic Ewing sarcoma: the first mimicking eosinophilic granuloma, and the second mimicking osteomyelitis. In the latter, we also report an atypical finding of its natural history: an initial response to antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment. In both cases, we highlight the possibility of an inconclusive percutaneous bone biopsy and the importance of immunochemistry and cytogenetics for the definitive diagnosis.

Resumo O sarcoma de Ewing é o tumor ósseo maligno da pelve mais comum em crianças e adultos jovens. Mesmo com tratamento agressivo, sua taxa de sobrevivência está entre as piores. A apresentação clássica pode não ser a regra. Ele pode simular clinicamente, imaginologicamente e histopatologicamente outras entidades não malignas. Portanto, sua suspeita não deve ser negligenciada. Relatamos dois casos de sarcoma pélvico: o primeiro imitando granuloma eosinofílico e o segundo imitando osteomielite. Neste último, também relatamos um achado atípico de sua história natural: uma resposta inicial ao antibiótico e ao tratamento anti-inflamatório. Em ambos os casos, destacamos a possibilidade de uma biópsia óssea percutânea inconclusiva e a importância da imunoquímica e da citogenética para o diagnóstico definitivo.

Frontal osteomyelitis post-COVID-19 associated mucormycosis

Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) is the most commonly noted form of mucormycosis, which is the most common secondary fungal infection following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Osteomyelitis is one of the rare sequelae of ROCM, frontal osteomyelitis being the rarest. We present four patients of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated mucormycosis, who presented with frontal bone osteomyelitis after being treated for ROCM surgically and medically. This is the first case series highlighting this complication in post–COVID-19 mucormycosis patients and needs utmost attention as it can be life-threatening and can cause extreme facial disfiguration. All four patients are alive with salvage of the affected globe and vision being preserved in one patient. If identified early, disfiguration of face and intracranial extension can be avoided.

Detection and expression of SapS, a class C nonspecific acid phosphatase with O-phospho-L- tyrosine-phosphatase activity, in Staphylococcus aureus isolates from patients with chronic osteomyelitis / Detección y expresión de SapS, una fosfatasa ácida no específica de clase C con actividad de fosfatasa O-fosfotirosina, en aislamientos de Staphylococcus aureus de pacientes con osteomielitis crónica

Introduction. The identity of Staphylococcus aureus virulence factors involved in chronic osteomyelitis remains unresolved. SapS is a class C non-specific acid phosphatase and a well-known virulence factor that has been identified in S. aureus strain 154 but in protein extracts from rotting vegetables. Objective. To identify the SapS gene and characterize the activity of SapS from S. aureus strains: 12 isolates from bone infected samples of patients treated for chronic osteomyelitis and 49 from a database with in silico analysis of complete bacterial genomes. Materials and methods. The SapS gene was isolated and sequenced from 12 S. aureus clinical isolates and two reference strains; 49 S. aureus strains and 11 coagulase-negative staphylococci were tested using in silico PCR. Culture media semi-purified protein extracts from the clinical strains were assayed for phosphatase activity with p-nitro-phenyl- phosphate, O-phospho-L-tyrosine, O-phospho-L-serine, and OphosphoL-threonine in conjunction with various phosphatase inhibitors. Results. SapS was detected in the clinical and in-silico S. aureus strains, but not in the in silico coagulase-negative staphylococci strains. Sec-type I lipoprotein-type N-terminal signal peptide sequences; secreted proteins, and aspartate bipartite catalytic domains coding sequences were found in the SapS nucleotide and amino acid sequence analysis. SapS dephosphorylated with p-nitro-phenyl-phosphate and ophosphoLtyrosine were selectively resistant to tartrate and fluoride, but sensitive to vanadate and molybdate. Conclusion. SapS gene was found in the genome of the clinical isolates and the in silico S. aureus strains. SapS shares biochemical similarities with known virulent bacterial, such as protein tyrosine phosphatases, suggesting it may be a virulence factor in chronic osteomyelitis.

Introducción. Se desconoce la identidad de los factores de virulencia de Staphylococcus aureus implicados en la osteomielitis crónica. Sin embargo, SapS, una fosfatasa ácida no específica de clase C, es un factor de virulencia reconocido y ya fue identificada en la cepa 154 de S. aureus, pero en extractos proteicos de vegetales podridos. Objetivo. Detectar el gen SapS y caracterizar la actividad de la fosfatasa SapS en cepas de S. aureus aisladas de pacientes con osteomielitis crónica y en las reportadas en una base de datos de análisis in silico de genomas bacterianos completos. Materiales y métodos. Se aisló y secuenció el gen SapS en los 12 aislamientos clínicos de S. aureus y en dos cepas de referencia; estas secuencias se analizaron junto con las secuencias de las cepas reportadas en la base de datos de genomas bacterianos: 49 cepas de S. aureus y 11 cepas de estafilococos negativos para coagulasa. Se evalúo la actividad de la fosfatasa SapS, presente en los extractos de los sobrenadantes de los cultivos de las cepas clínicas, mediante la hidrólisis de fosfato p-nitrofenil, O-fosfo-L- tirosina, O-fosfo-L serina y O-fosfo-L treonina junto con varios inhibidores de fosfatasas. Resultados. Se detectó el gen SapS en el genoma de las cepas clínicas y en las 49 cepas de S. aureus analizadas in silico, pero no en las 11 cepas de estafilococos negativos para coagulasa. La secuenciación de SapS reveló un péptido señal presente en el extremo N-terminal de proteínas extracelulares y los dominios bipartitos de aspartato (DDDD) en su sitio catalítico. SapS hidroliza selectivamente el fosfato p-nitrofenil y la O-fosfo-L-tirosina, pero es sensible a vanadato y molibdato. Conclusión. Se encontró SapS en el genoma de S. aureus de las cepas clínicas y de las cepas de simulación computacional. La SapS con actividad específica para la hidrólisis de la O-fosfo-L-tirosina comparte similitudes bioquímicas con las fosfatasas-tirosina bacterianas, por lo que puede formar parte de la red de factores de virulencia de la osteomielitis crónica.

Características epidemiológicas de la Osteomielitis aguda en niños internados en un hospital infeccioso de referencia

Introducción: La osteomielitis aguda es una infección del hueso que afecta principalmente a los niños y tiene generalmente diseminación hematógena, a veces asociada a un trauma. En la etiología influyen factores, como la edad, el estado inmunológico y las enfermedades concomitantes. En la mayoría de los casos, el principal agente etiológico es Staphylococcus aureus. Es importante el diagnóstico oportuno para evitar secuelas a mediano o largo plazo. Objetivo: Describir las características epidemiológicas de un grupo de pacientes con osteomielitis aguda. Métodos: Se realizó la revisión retrospectiva de los expedientes clínicos de pacientes egresados del servicio de pediatría del Instituto de Medicina Tropical, entre enero de 2016 y diciembre de 2020, con diagnóstico de osteomielitis aguda. Resultados: Los varones con osteomielitis corresponden al 67,8% del total de 59 casos registrados, en cuanto a los signos y síntomas, el dolor, la tumefacción y la impotencia funcional fueron predominantes, la fiebre se documentó en 49 (83,1%) pacientes, se registró antecedentes de cirugía en 37 (62,7%) de los pacientes y complicaciones en 42 (71,2%) de los pacientes, la complicación más frecuente fue osteomielitis crónica El sitio anatómico más frecuente fueron los miembros inferiores. El tratamiento empírico fue realizado con cefalosporinas de 3G en 72,9% de los pacientes, ya sea solo o combinado con clindamicina o vancomicina, un paciente con aislamiento de M. tuberculosis recibió tratamiento HRZE. Se aisló algún germen 44 pacientes (74,5%), el microorganismo predominante fue Staphylococcus aureus en 81,8 %, la mitad (52,3%) correspondieron a SAMR Se encontró una alta resistencia a oxacilina del 55,8% y un solo paciente resistente a clindamicina (2,2%). Conclusión Los hallazgos fueron similares a los reportados en la literatura en cuanto a etiología, sitio anatómico afectado y cobertura antibiótica.

Introduction: Acute osteomyelitis is a bone infection that mainly affects children and generally has hematogenous spread, sometimes associated with trauma. The etiology is influenced by factors such as age, immune status, and comorbidities. In most cases, the main etiologic agent is Staphylococcus aureus. Timely diagnosis is important to avoid sequelae in the medium or long term. Objective: To describe the epidemiological characteristics of a group of patients with acute osteomyelitis. Methods: A retrospective review of the clinical records of patients discharged from the pediatric service of the Institute of Tropical Medicine was carried out between January 2016 and December 2020, with a diagnosis of acute osteomyelitis. Results: Men with osteomyelitis correspond to 67.8% of the total of 59 registered cases, in terms of signs and symptoms, pain, swelling and functional impotence were predominant, fever was documented in 49 (83.1%) patients, a history of surgery was recorded in 37 (62.7%) of the patients and complications in 42 (71.2%) of the patients, the most frequent complication was chronic osteomyelitis The most frequent anatomical site was the lower limbs. Empirical treatment was performed with 3G cephalosporins in 72.9% of the patients, either alone or in combination with clindamycin or vancomycin. One patient with M. tuberculosis isolation received HRZE treatment. Some germ was isolated in 44 patients (74.5%), the predominant microorganism was Staphylococcus aureus in 81.8%, half (52.3%) corresponded to MRSA. A high resistance to oxacillin of 55.8% and a only patient resistant to clindamycin (2.2%). Conclusion The findings were similar to those reported in the literature in terms of etiology, affected anatomical site, and antibiotic coverage.

A rare diagnosis has no certainty, but still they occur: A case report

Pain and swelling are among the most frequently encountered complaints in an orthopedics outpatient department (OPD) relatively less common in a pediatric OPD. A high level of suspicion is required to diagnose bone diseases. Common conditions such as rickets, septic arthritis, and tuberculosis must be ruled out. Treatment such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or steroids may mask an underlying serious condition in which if left untreated can cause significant morbidity and mortality to the person. Here, we discuss a case of a young infant 11 months of age who had symptoms suggestive of septic arthritis and was later found to have Brodie’s abscess which is a type of subacute osteomyelitis on further evaluation which is usually mistaken as a tumor. This age at presentation is rare.

Espondilodiscitis cervical tardía secundaria a ántrax nucal

Fundamento: La espondilodiscitis es un proceso infeccioso del cuerpo vertebral y del disco intervertebral. Presenta una etiología multifactorial y requiere un abordaje multidisciplinario. El menor número corresponde a la columna cervical. El tratamiento quirúrgico se sugiere en pacientes con defecto neurológico, deformidad y fallo de la terapia conservadora. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas, radiológicas y el tratamiento quirúrgico de un paciente con espondilodiscitis cervical. Presentación del caso: Paciente masculino de 48 años con antecedentes de diabetes mellitus tipo 2. Presentó ántrax nucal y fue tratado con antimicrobianos. Al año volvió a consulta con entumecimiento en el brazo derecho, que luego se generalizó hacia las otras extremidades. Se diagnosticó espondilodiscitis cervical a nivel C6-C7. Se decidió aplicar tratamiento quirúrgico mediante corporectomia de C6 y C7, con injerto tricortical de cresta ilíaca, y colocar placa de titanio desde C5 a D1. Se aisló Staphylococcus aureus en el disco intervertebral, por lo cual se trató con antibiótico específico durante 6 semanas. Conclusiones: La espondilodiscitis cervical es la infección espinal de más baja incidencia. Su aparición tardía en un paciente inmunocompetente después de una infección de piel, resulta muy inusual. El manejo quirúrgico mediante descompresión y fijación con lámina y tornillos de titanio, junto con el tratamiento antibiótico, resultó en una excelente evolución posoperatoria.

Instroduction: Spondylodiscitis is an infectious process of the vertebral body and the intervertebral disc. It has multifactorial etiology which requires a multidisciplinary approach. The smallest number corresponds to the cervical spine. Surgical treatment is suggested in patients with neurological defect, deformity and failure of conservative therapy. Objective: To describe the clinical and radiological characteristics and the surgical treatment of a patient with cervical spondylodiscitis. Case report: We report the case of a 48-year-old male patient with a history of type II diabetes mellitus. He presented nuchal anthrax and he was treated with antimicrobials. A year later, he returned to the consultation with numbness in his right arm and later it spread to the other extremities. Cervical spondylodiscitis is diagnosed at C6-C7 level. It was decided to apply surgical treatment by C6 and C7 corporectomy with iliac crest tricortical graft and place a titanium plate from C5 to D1. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the intervertebral disc and specific antibiotic treatment was continued for 6 weeks. Conclusions: Cervical spondylodiscitis is the spinal infection with the lowest incidence. Its late appearance in an immunocompetent patient after a skin infection is highly unusual. Surgical management by means of decompression and fixation with blade and titanium screws, together with antibiotic treatment, resulted in an excellent postoperative evolution.

Cultivo versus metagenómica para la identificación bacteriana en pacientes con osteomielitis de pie diabético: una revisión sistemática / Culture and metagenomics as bacterial identification methods in patients with diabetic foot ulcers: a systematic review

BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO) is a serious complication of infected ulcers in a diabetic patient. The identification of the infecting microorganisms is generally by culture, which causes a bias. Recently, metagenomics has been used for microbial identification. AIM: To systematically review the scientific literature related to DFO in the last 10 years to evaluate if culture and metagenomics are complementary. MATERIAL AND METHODS: To carry out the systematic review, PRISMA and Rayyan were used for the selection of studies, using three databases, using the keywords diabetes, osteomyelitis, culture and microbiome. Articles in English or Spanish were included, containing information related to bacterial identification in DFO. Characteristics of the technique, patients and frequency of bacterial appearance were collected. RESULTS: Twenty six articles were included, 19 used culture and 7 metagenomics. The patients were predominantly men (68%), with an average age of 61 years, 83% had type 2 diabetes and comorbidities, mainly vascular and neuropathy. The Families with the highest frequency of appearance using the culture technique were Enterobacteriaceae (29.3%) and Staphylococcaceae(28.3%) and with metagenomics Peptoniphilaceae (22.1%) and Staphylococcaceae (9.4%). Peptoniphilaceae were not identified in culture, although they were frequently identified by metagenomics. Methicillin- resistant Staphylococcus aureus, regularly identified by culture, was not identified using metagenomics. CONCLUSIONS: Comparing results, there is a certain complementarity between microbiological culture and sequencing to identify bacteria present in DFO.

Osteomielite: perfil epidemiológico e desfechos verificados em pacientes internados em um hospital público de Curitiba / Osteomyelitis: epidemiologic profile and outcomes of inpatients of a public hospital in Curitiba

Introdução: Osteomielite é inflamação aguda ou crônica de ossos trabeculares ou corticais, periósteo, medula óssea e tecidos moles próximos. É classificada pela localização dentro do osso, extensão da dispersão e fonte de infecção. Objetivo: Avaliar os aspectos epidemiológicos dos pacientes internados com osteomielite e analisar relação entre o tempo de internamento e fatores correlatos.Métodos: Estudados dados de 33 pacientes de uma seleção inicial de 42 prontuários. Resultados: O grupo de 0 a 20 anos com 8 (24,4%) pacientes ficou 18 ± 24 dias, 13 (39,4%) adultos jovens (21 a 40 anos): 12,3 ± 12,4 d; 6 (18,1%) adultos (41 a 60 anos) e 6 (18,1%) >60 anos receberam cuidados hospitalares por 31,8 ± 36 e 19,6 ± 15,8 dias respectivamente. O periodo maior de permanência foi de 91 dias. O etilismo (6%), o tabagismo (6%) e o diabetes (6%) foram as comorbidades mais encontradas. A mortalidade foi de 15%, sendo que 60% eram usuários de álcool. O perfil epidemiológico também mostrou o predomínio do sexo masculino na faixa de 21 a 40 anos e o principal agente infeccioso encontrado foi S. aureus. Conclusão: A alta taxa de mortalidade em indivíduos maiores de 50 anos, com maior permanência hospitalar e presença de comorbidades como o etilismo e diabetes mellitus alerta para a necessidade de planejamento estratégico visando intervenções que diminuam prejuízos tanto para o paciente quanto para o sistema de saúde.

Introduction: Osteomyelitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of trabecular or cortical bones, periosteum, bone marrow, and nearby soft tissue. It is classified by location within the bone, extent and source of infection. Objective: Assess the epidemiological aspects of hospitalized patients with osteomyelitis and analyze the relationship between length of stay and correlated factors. Methods: Data were collected from 33 patients from an initial selection of 42. Results: The groups were arranged as follows: 8 (24.4%) individuals from 0-20 yo and with a hospital stay of 18 ± 24 d; 13 (39.4%) young adults (21-40 yo) and 12.3 ± 12.4 d; 6 (18.1%) adults (41-60 yo) and 31.8 ± 36 d; and 6 (18.1%) over 60 yo who were under hospital care for 19.6 ± 15.8 d. The longest period of hospital stay was 91 days. Alcoholism (6%), smoking habits (6%) and diabetes (6%) were the most common comorbidities. Mortality rate was 15%, among which 60% were alcohol users. The epidemiologic profile also showed that the majority of the hospitalized were males between the ages 21-40 yo and the most common infective agent was S. aureus. Conclusion: the high mortality rate in individuals over 50, with comorbidities and longer hospital stays highlights the need for strategic planning yielding interventions that diminish harm to the patients and the health system.

Osteomielitis hematógena del fémur en el adulto

Introducción: Las infecciones del tejido óseo por gérmenes patógenos por la vía hematógena son frecuentes en el niño en las zonas metafisarias y columna vertebral en el adulto. Objetivo: Presentar el caso de una paciente adulta con osteomielitis del fémur por vía hematógena. Caso clínico: Paciente de 38 años de edad, blanca, femenina sin comorbilidad conocida, la cual acude a la consulta de Ortopedia y Traumatología por referir dolor intenso a nivel del muslo derecho que no remite al tratamiento ambulatorio con analgésicos. Mediante la exploración física se observó ligero aumento de volumen a nivel del muslo distal. A la palpación se detectó hiperestesia cutánea en especial hacia la cara lateral. La tomografía axial computarizada detectó a nivel de la diáfisis distal del fémur derecho, lesión osteolítica con presencia de una hiperdensidad en su interior con densidad ósea. Al tener en cuenta todos los elementos anteriores, se decide llevar la paciente al quirófano, para tratamiento de tipo quirúrgico, donde se realizó incisión quirúrgica lateral en la zona distal del muslo derecho, se avanzó por planos quirúrgicos y se realizó punción ósea con trocar de ocho milímetros donde se observó salida de pus espeso. Conclusiones: La osteomielitis hematógena es una enfermedad típica del paciente con epífisis abiertas y en la columna vertebral del adulto. La invasión al tejido óseo por la vía hematógena en el adulto que no sea en la columna es muy infrecuente.

Introduction: Infections of the bone tissue by pathogenic germs by hematogenous route are frequent in the child in the metaphyseal zones and in the spine in the adult. Objective: To present an adult patient with osteomyelitis of the femur by hematogenous route. Clinical case: A 38-year-old white female patient with no known morbidity, clinical record 253853, named MRA, who went to the Orthopedics and Traumatology clinic for reporting severe pain at the level of the right thigh that did not respond to treatment with ambulatory pain relievers. Physical examination revealed a slight increase in volume at the level of the distal thigh. On palpation, skin hyperesthesia was detected, especially towards the lateral aspect of the knee. A computed tomography scan detected an osteolytic lesion at the distal diaphysis of the right femur with the presence of hyperdensity with bone density. Taking all the above elements into account, it was decided to take the patient to the operating room for surgical treatment, where a lateral surgical incision was made in the distal area of the right thigh, surgical plans were performed, and an eight millimeters trocar bone puncture was used to open the bone where thick pus was observed. Conclusions: Hematogenous osteomyelitis is a typical entity of the patient with open epiphyses and in the adult spine. Invasion of bone tissue by the hematogenous route in adults other than in the spine is very rare.

Infección por bartonella henselae en pacientes pediátricos. Lesión pseudotumoral de calota. Reporte de caso

Los tumores de calota en pacientes pediátricos poseen múltiples etiologías. Dentro de las causas pseudotumorales, las infecciones juegan un rol importante, siendo la osteomielitis por Bartonella henselae (Enfermedad por Arañazo de Gato) una posibilidad diagnóstica rara, pero que debe ser estudiada y descartada. Se presenta el caso de una lactante de 1 año, con lesión expansiva de calota, a nivel frontal derecho, hipervascularizada e infiltrativa. Se realizó estudio con ultrasonido, tomografía cerebral y cintigrama óseo. Se realizó resección quirúrgica completa de la lesión, con preservación de la duramadre y zona fontanelar, además de un cuidadoso trato con el seno sagital superior. Evolucionó sin complicaciones perioperatorias. El resultado de la biopsia fue compatible con proceso inflamatorio crónico, osteomielitis supurada. Tinción de Warthin Starry positiva sugerente de Bartonella henselae. Se descartó etiología tuberculosa y fúngica. Serología positiva para Bartonella henselae. La paciente completó antibioticoterapia, azitromicina y cotrimoxazol, con evolución clínica favorable.

Calvarial tumors in pediatric patients have multiple etiologies. Among the pseudotumoral causes, infections play an important role, being Bartonella henselae osteomyelitis (Cat Scratch Disease) a rare diagnostic possibility, but it should be studied and ruled out. We present the case of a 1 year old infant, with an expansive lesion of the calvaria, at right frontal level, hypervascularized and infiltrative. Ultrasound, brain tomography and bone scintigram were performed. Complete surgical resection of the lesion was performed, with preservation of the dura mater and fontanel area, in addition to a careful treatment with the superior sagittal sinus. The patient evolved without perioperative complications. The biopsy result was compatible with a chronic inflammatory process, suppurative osteomyelitis. Positive Warthin Starry stain suggestive of Bartonella henselae. Tuberculous and fungal etiology was ruled out. Positive serology for Bartonella henselae. The patient completed antibiotic therapy, azithromycin and cotrimoxazole, with favorable clinical evolution.

Antimicrobial peptide for bacterial infection imaging: first case reported in Brazil

ABSTRACT Molecular imaging markers can be used to differentiate between infection and aseptic inflammation, determine the severity of infection, and monitor treatment responses. One of these markers is ubiquicidin(29-41) (UBI), a cationic peptide fragment that binds to the bacterial membrane wall and is labeled with gallium-68 (68Ga), a positron emitter radioisotope. The use of UBI in positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) for improved detection of lesions has been receiving considerable attention recently. Herein, we report the first case of 68Ga-UBI PET/CT performed in Brazil. The patient was a 39-year-old woman referred for a scan to confirm a clinical suspicion of chronic osteomyelitis of her fractured left tibia. PET images revealed radiotracer uptake near the posterior contour of the tibial fracture focus and the fixation plate, in the soft tissue around the distal half of the tibia, and in the non-consolidated fracture of the left distal fibula. Surgery for local cleaning was performed, and culture of a specimen collected from the surgical site confirmed the presence of Staphylococcus aureus. In the present case, 68Ga-UBI PET/CT, a non-invasive imaging modality, identified the infection foci in vivo, indicating its potential for clinical use.