Bisphosphonate Treatment for Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis in an Adolescent

ABSTRACT

Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis (CRMO) is a non-bacterial inflammatory disorder of unknown cause occurring in children and adolescents. It is characterized by the insidious onset of pain and swelling to multifocal involved bones, recurring over months to years. Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids are the first choice for the initial and relapse treatment. However, multifocal and frequent relapses might require more intensive anti-inflammatory treatment. Here, we report that an adolescent with CRMO refractory to antibiotics, NSAIDs and steroids over a two-year responded well to bisphosphonate. To our knowledge, this is the first case using bisphosphonate in adolescent refractory CRMO in Korea.