The management of septic arthritis in children

Analysis of poor prognostic factors for septic arthritis of the hip in children: a case series of 76 patients

The clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes of children with septic arthritis of the hip in our hospital were analyzed to identify the risk factors for a poor prognosis. The clinical data of 76 children with septic arthritis of the hip who were treated at our hospital from January 2010 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. According to the most recent follow-up data, the patients were classified as good prognosis or poor prognosis. The differences between the two groups were analyzed. From January 2010 to December 2020, a total of 76 children with septic arthritis of the hip were admitted to our hospital, comprising 52 (68.4%) with a good prognosis and 24 (31.6%) with a poor prognosis. The risk of a poor prognosis was significantly higher in the group with time from onset to surgery >22 days than in the group with time from onset to surgery <11 days. The risk of poor prognosis in the group with C-reactive protein (CRP) > 100 mg/L was significantly higher than that in the group with CRP < 20 mg/L. Time from onset to surgery >14 days and CRP > 93 mg/L were the cutoff values for a poor prognosis. Significant elevation of CRP and prolonged time from onset to surgery in children with septic arthritis of the hip are risk factors for a poor prognosis. Early diagnosis and effective treatment are very important because delays in these factors can lead to a poor prognosis. Level of Evidence: Level II, retrospective study.

The use of the ratio of C-reactive protein to albumin for the diagnosis of pediatric septic arthritis

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the ratio of c-reactive protein to albumin (CAR) and pediatric septic arthritis (PSA).

Methods

Clinical and laboratory data were collected. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the predictive ability of CAR in identifying PSA. Multivariable logistic regression analyses was performed to calculate adjusted odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

We included 305 patients with PSA (CAR ≤ 0.447, 182 patients; CAR > 0.447, 123 patients) between September 2013 and November 2022. ROC analysis showed that CAR performed best in diagnosing PSA, with an area under curve (AUC) value of 0.828. After adjusted for potential confounders, we found that high CAR was associated with PSA (OR = 6.85, 95% CI: 2.30-20.40, p = 0.001). In sensitivity analyses, subgroups analyses, and propensity score matching, the results remain stable.

Conclusions

The CAR (>0.447) at admission was an independent risk factor for PSA. It is worthy to further investigate this association.

Septic arthritis in the pediatric hip joint: a systematic review of diagnosis, management, and outcomes

Septic arthritis of the pediatric hip joint (SAH) is a rare but serious orthopedic emergency requiring immediate diagnosis and management. Delayed recognition can lead to severe complications, emphasizing the need for timely intervention. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of SAH in the pediatric population, focusing on its diagnosis, management, and outcomes. The review included 11 studies involving 391 patients with SAH, aged between three months and 12 years. Staphylococcus aureus was identified as the most common causative pathogen, with increasing cases of methicillin-resistant strains. Diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific clinical presentations, necessitating validated criteria and a multidisciplinary approach. Ultrasound emerged as a valuable tool for early detection, and MRI was used in challenging cases. Treatment options include hip aspiration, arthrotomy, and arthroscopy, often combined with appropriate antibiotic therapy. Success rates were comparable among different surgical procedures. Early intervention is vital for optimal outcomes. However, the review highlights the need for standardized protocols and further prospective studies to address limitations and improve understanding and management of SAH in the pediatric hip joint.

Septic Arthritis of the Knee in Children

Septic arthritis of the knee is the most common form of septic arthritis in children and can lead to irreversible damage to the joint. Staphylococcus aureus is the primary pathogen associated with septic arthritis, although other causative pathogens may be isolate in children with specific risk factors. The diagnosis of knee septic arthritis is based on comprehensive evaluation, including the patient's medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and arthrocentesis. Empirical treatment typically involves anti-staphylococcal penicillin or a first-generation cephalosporin, although modifications may be made based on local resistance patterns and clinical culture data. Surgical debridement, either through open surgery or arthroscopy, involving extensive debridement of the joint, is effective in eliminating the infection. In most cases, additional surgical intervention is not necessary.

Septic Arthritis of the Elbow in a Premature Neonate: An Uncommon Disease in an Uncommon Location

Septic arthritis (SA) is an infrequent diagnosis in the neonate. This case illustrates the presentation of SA within the elbow, an atypical location for neonatal SA. SA should be considered in any neonate with joint swelling, as symptoms are often subtle. Constitutional symptoms of infection, including fever, may not be present in the neonate. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common etiologic organism, and neonatal SA is often caused by hematogenous spread partially due to unique neonatal intraosseous anatomy. Joint aspiration can provide a definitive diagnosis and aid in targeted antimicrobial therapy. Other laboratory tests, including C-reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, can aid in diagnosis. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging can demonstrate joint effusion along with osteomyelitis, which is often seen concurrently with neonatal SA. There are no definitive guidelines for the treatment of neonatal SA. Conservative therapy with antimicrobials along with surgical intervention are the mainstays of treatment. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to decrease permanent joint damage. [Pediatr Ann. 2023;52(8):e292-e296.].

Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes and Treatment Algorithm for Septic Arthritis in Children

BACKGROUND

Septic arthritis (SA) in children is an acute inflammatory disease of the joints. If not treated promptly, it could become a surgical emergency. The incidence of the disease in children in Europe is approximately 2-7 per 100,000 children. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate which of these treatments-arthrocentesis, arthrotomy, and arthroscopy-provides better results in children and when to use them.

METHODS

Three independent authors conducted a systematic review of PubMed, ScienceDirect, and MEDLINE databases to assess studies with any level of evidence that reported the surgical outcome of SA. Two senior investigators evaluated and approved each stage's findings.

RESULTS

A total of 488 articles were found. After screening, we chose 24 articles that were suitable for full-text reading based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results of our analysis showed that there are no numerically significant differences reported in the literature on clinical and radiographic outcomes by surgical technique.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed an algorithm that could be used if septic arthritis is suspected. Based on our results, the surgical technique to be used will depend on the operator who will perform it.

Evaluation of paediatric hip pain

Hip pain in a child can pose a diagnostic conundrum. In most cases, the cause of a painful hip is often attributed to trauma, but a number of these cases will be atraumatic. The main entities to consider are inflammatory, infective and neoplastic causes. Pathologies such as avascular necrosis and slipped upper femoral epiphysis can also present in a similar manner. A detailed history and clinical examination are crucial in narrowing down the differential diagnosis. In addition, understanding the most appropriate imaging modalities and the characteristic radiological findings is key in ensuring timely treatment and management. This article reviews the various disease processes in children who present with hip pain and outlines the most appropriate assessment and imaging modalities that will aid diagnosis.

Acute musculoskeletal infection in children: assessment and management

Musculoskeletal infection in children is challenging to treat, and includes septic arthritis, deep tissue infection, osteomyelitis, discitis and pyomyositis. Delays to diagnosis and management, and under-treatment can be life-threatening and result in chronic disability. The British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma include critical steps in the timely diagnosis and management of acute musculoskeletal infection in children, the principles of acute clinical care and the service delivery requirements to appropriately manage this cohort of patients. Orthopaedic and paediatric services are likely to encounter cases of acute musculoskeletal infection in children and thus an awareness and thorough understanding of the British Orthopaedic Association Standards for Trauma guidelines is essential. This article reviews these guidelines and associated published evidence for the management of children with acute musculoskeletal infection.

Is Ankle Arthrodesis With an Ilizarov External Fixator an Effective Treatment for Septic Ankle Arthritis? A Study With a Minimum of 6 Years of Follow-up

BACKGROUND

Septic ankle arthritis is a devastating clinical problem with a high potential for permanent disability and amputation. Successful treatment of septic ankle arthritis remains a challenge for the surgeon and patient. Ankle arthrodesis combined with radical debridement may be an effective option to eradicate infection and salvage the limb. Although numerous fusion methods have been proposed, there is controversy about the most effective technique.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

At a minimum follow-up of 6 years after ankle arthrodesis performed using an Ilizarov external fixator, we asked, (1) In what proportion of patients was bony fusion achieved? (2) What complications were observed, and what reoperations were performed in these patients? (3) How much did patient-reported outcomes improve from before surgery to the most recent follow-up in this group?

METHODS

Between April 2010 to March 2015, we treated 59 patients for septic ankle arthritis. Of those, we considered patients who were at least 18 years of age with irreversible destruction of the joint as potentially eligible. During that time period, all patients met the prespecified criteria and were treated with ankle arthrodesis using an Ilizarov external fixator. Two percent (one of 59) of patients were excluded because they died in the second year after surgery for reasons unrelated to the procedure, and another 7% (four of 59) of patients were excluded because they were lost before the minimum study follow-up interval of 6 years. Finally, 92% (54 of 59) of patients were analyzed at a mean follow-up time of 9 ± 1 years. A total of 61% (33 of 54) were men, and they had a mean age of 48 ± 12 years. Forty-six percent (25 of 54) of patients were smokers, and 13% (seven of 54) of patients had Type 2 diabetes mellitus. All patients received radical debridement and primary arthrodesis with an Ilizarov external fixator, followed by antibiotic therapy. Postoperatively, patients were instructed to perform lower extremity functional exercises and external fixator care; weightbearing ambulation as tolerated was encouraged as early as possible. Fusion was assessed with a radiographic review that was performed by an individual who was not involved in the surgical care of these patients. We defined bony fusion as continuous trabeculae and complete cortical bridging in the fusion interface achieved before 9 months; delayed union was defined as fusion achieved by 9 to 12 months; and nonunion was defined as patients in whom fusion was not achieved by 12 months. Complications and reoperations were tallied through a record review that was performed by an individual who was not involved in the surgical care of these patients. We defined complications as any deviation from the expected postoperative course. We used the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, the VAS active pain score, and the SF-12 questionnaire (including the physical component summary [PCS] score and mental component summary [MCS] score) to assess patient-reported outcomes. The minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for the AOFAS score was 30 points of 100, the MCID for the VAS active pain score was 2 points of 10, and the MCID of PCS and MCS scores was 7 points and 9 points, respectively.

RESULTS

Primary bony fusion was achieved in 94% (51 of 54) of patients. Delayed union was found in 2% (one of 54) of patients. Nonunion was found in 6% (three of 54); one of these patients underwent autologous bone grafting during revision, and bony fusion was ultimately achieved. Final bony fusion was achieved in 96% (52 of 54) of patients. Recurrent infection was found in 2% (one of 54). The median (range) AOFAS score improved from 28 points (8 to 59) before surgery to 80 points (52 to 86) at the most recent follow-up (median difference 52; p < 0.001). The median (range) VAS active pain score decreased from 8 points (6 to 9) before surgery to 2 points (0 to 5) at the most recent follow-up (median difference -6; p < 0.001). For the Short Form 12-item score, the median (range) PCS score improved from 0 points (0 to 30) before surgery to 70 points (40 to 95) at the most recent follow-up (median difference 70; p < 0.001), and the median (range) MCS score improved from 46 points (21 to 75) before surgery to 75 points (50 to 92) at the most recent follow-up (median difference 29; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Ankle arthrodesis with Ilizarov external fixation might eradicate an infection and restore foot function in patients with septic ankle arthritis. However, patients should be fully informed of the complications related to the external fixator, such as pin-tract infections, recurrent infection, and nonunion. Standardized and professional pin care is important. Additionally, because Ilizarov external fixators can be inconvenient to the patients' daily lives, future studies should explore how psychologic support affects patients who undergo ankle arthrodesis with these devices.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study.

Surgical treatment of septic arthritis of the hip in children: arthrotomy compared with repeated aspiration-lavage

PURPOSE

To review two cohorts of children treated by two different protocols (repeated needle aspiration-lavage vs. arthrotomy) for surgical treatment of septic arthritis of the hip (SAH).

METHODS

In order to compare between the two methods, the following parameters were checked: (a) Scar cosmesis was assessed by the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS). We considered satisfactory results (no scar discomfort) when POSAS was within 10% of the ideal score; (b) 24-h post-operative pain was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS); (c) Complication rates of incomplete drainage (re-arthrotomy/therapy modification from aspiration-lavage to arthrotomy). The results were evaluated by the Student t-test or by the chi-square test.

RESULTS

Seventy-nine children (aged 2-14 years) admitted during 2009-2018 and available for at least two years of follow-up were enrolled. The POSAS score (range 12-120 points) at the latest follow-up was higher in the arthrotomy group compared with the aspiration-lavage group (18.10 ± 6.22 versus 12.27 ± 1.40, p < 0.001); 77.4% of patients treated by arthrotomy had no scar discomfort. The 24-h post-intervention VAS (range 1-10) was 5.06 ± 1.29 after arthrotomy and 4.03 ± 1.13 after aspiration-lavage, p < 0.04. Complications were three times more frequent in the aspiration-lavage group (8.8% in the arthrotomy group and 26.7% in the aspiration-lavage group, p = 0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the lower complication rate observed in the arthrotomy group outweighs by far scar cosmesis and post-operative pain advantages in the aspiration-lavage group. Arthrotomy as a drainage method is safer than aspiration-lavage.

ACUTE DESTRUCTIVE HIP SEPTIC ARTHRITIS IN A YOUNG ADULT PATIENT: CASE REPORT (v2)

The Authors describe a case of rapid right hip destructive septic arthritis in a 50-year-old male patient with no previous noteworthy medical history. Patient arrived to our attention following a one week history of right hip pain. Laboratory markers and imaging at presentation were negative. However, on a follow-up examination significant joint effusion was noted and joint tap was performed. Despite wide spectrum antibiotic therapy institution, significant joint damage was observed. This required surgical femoral head excision with antibiotic loaded spacer, followed by hip arthroplasty surgery 12 weeks afterwards. Complete healing of the infection and recovery of pain-free joint motion was noted at 1 year follow-up.

Oral Versus Intravenous Antibiotics for Pediatric Osteoarticular Infection: When and to Whom?

BACKGROUND

Osteoarticular infections (OAIs) are typically treated initially with intravenous antibiotics. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether an exclusive oral treatment in selected children may be appropriate.

METHODS

The Spanish Network of Osteoarticular Infections is a nationwide multicenter registry comprising 37 hospitals in Spain. The registry prospectively includes clinical characteristics and outcome of children with OAI. One of the hospitals from RioPed offers oral treatment to children meeting certain criteria. Patients were classified into 2 groups. Group 1: management with initial intravenous antibiotic therapy. Group 2: patients exclusively treated with oral antibiotics. A comparison between the 2 groups was performed.

RESULTS

We compared 893 children who initially received intravenous antibiotics (group 1) with 64 children who received exclusively oral therapy (group 2). Patients from group 2 were younger (33.9 vs. 20.3 months; P = 0.001), had a lower percentage of Staphylococcus aureus (23.3% vs. 3.1%; P < 0.001), a higher proportion of Kingella kingae (12.1% vs. 28.1%; P = 0.001), higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate/C-reactive protein (CRP) ratio (1.4 interquartile range 0.6-3.6 vs. 3.3 interquartile range 1.7-5.7; P < 0.001) and showed lower rate of fever (63% vs. 48.8%; P = 0.024) than in group 1. Complications were not found in group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

An exclusively oral administration could be a safe option in selected patients with OAI. Low-risk criteria are proposed: good general condition, no underlying disease, 6 months to 3 years old, appropriate oral tolerance, C-reactive protein <80 mg/L, erythrocyte sedimentation rate/C-reactive protein ratio ≥0.67, no skin injury, no recent surgery, no cervical spondylodiscitis and no local complications at onset.

A systematic review of the optimal drainage technique for septic hip arthritis in children

INTRODUCTION

The hip is one of the most commonly affected joints in paediatric septic arthritis. Drainage can be performed using arthrocentesis (articular needle aspiration), arthroscopy or arthrotomy. The objective of this systematic review was to identify the most effective drainage technique for septic hip arthritis in the paediatric population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The electronic MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for original articles that reported outcomes of arthrocentesis, arthroscopy or arthrotomy for septic arthritis of the paediatric hip. Outcome parameters were additional drainage procedures, clinical outcomes and radiological sequelae. The quality of each of the included studies was assessed with the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) score.

RESULTS

Out of 2428 articles, 19 studies with a total of 406 hip joints were included in the systematic review. Additional arthroscopy or arthrotomy was performed in 15% of the hips treated with arthrocentesis, in 14% after arthroscopy and in 3% after arthrotomy. Inferior clinical outcomes and more radiological sequelae were seen in patients treated with an arthrotomy. A meta-analysis could not be performed due to the diversity and low quality of the studies (MINORS median 4 [range 2-15]).

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review gives a comprehensive overview of the available literature on treatment for septic hip arthritis in children. Arthrocentesis and arthroscopic procedures may have a higher risk of additional drainage procedures in comparison with arthrotomy. However, arthrotomy might be associated with inferior outcomes in the longer term. The included studies are diverse and the scientific quality is generally low.

Arthroscopic Treatment Yields Lower Reoperation Rates than Open Treatment for Native Knee but Not Native Shoulder Septic Arthritis

Purpose

To compare the incidence, patient demographics, complication rates, readmission rates, and reoperation rates of open and arthroscopic surgery performed for septic arthritis in native knee and shoulder joints.

Methods

Records of patients who were diagnosed with native knee or shoulder septic arthritis and underwent open or arthroscopic irrigation and debridement (I&D) between 2015 and 2018 were queried from the PearlDiver Mariner Database. International Classification of Diseases 10th (ICD-10) diagnosis and procedure codes were used to identify patients and track reoperations. Reoperation procedures, including revision open and arthroscopic I&D, were analyzed at 1 month, 1 year, and 2 years. Complications, emergency department (ED) admissions, and hospital readmissions within 30 days were analyzed and compared between the open and arthroscopic cohorts.

Results

The query resulted with 1,993 patients who underwent knee I&D (75.3% arthroscopic, 24.7% open, P < .001) and 476 patients who underwent shoulder I&D (64.8% arthroscopic, 35.2% open, P < .001). One-month complication rates (11.6-22.7%) and hospital readmission rates (15.8-19.6%) were similar for arthroscopic and open treatment for knee and shoulder septic arthritis. Reoperation rates for revision I&D of the knee were higher after open compared to arthroscopic treatment at 1 month, 1 and 2 years (20.9% vs. 16.7%, 32.5% vs 27.6% and 34.1% vs. 29.4%, P < .05, respectively). For shoulder septic arthritis 1-month, 1-year, and 2-year reoperation rates were similar for open and arthroscopic treatment (16.0% vs 11.7%, 22.0% vs 19.3%, and 22.7% vs 20.0%, P = .57, respectively). Lastly, 6.7% of patients with native septic knee arthritis underwent subsequent arthroplasty by 2 years.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic treatment carries a lower reoperation rate than open surgery for knee septic arthritis, but in the shoulder, the risk for revision I&D is similar after arthroscopic or open surgery.

Adult presentation of severe sequelae of Tom Smith arthritis treated with bilateral total hip arthroplasty: A case report

Introduction and importance

Tom Smith arthritis (TSA) is a pyogenic arthritis of the hip joint that occurs in infancy and has considerable morbidity. Reports on surgical management of severe hip dysplasia in adulthood secondary to TSA are extremely limited. We describe a patient who successfully underwent a bilateral total hip arthroplasty for the severely damaged hip joints secondary to TSA with satisfactory functional outcomes.

Case presentation

A 25-year-old female was unable to walk for more than 10 ft due to pain in both hips and knees predominantly on the left side. She developed pyogenic septic arthritis with sepsis at 6 weeks of age and underwent multiple surgical procedures to drain the infection and for reconstruction. She had limited range of motion and was severely disabled. She underwent an uneventful left total hip arthroplasty and two years later, a right total hip arthroplasty using S-ROM modular hip systems. The pre and post-operative Harris Hips scores were 53.4 (left), 46 (right) and 95.7 (left), 89.65 (right), respectively.

Clinical discussion

Detailed preoperative evaluation of the anatomy was paramount. Assessment of the limb-length discrepancy by means of scanogram, templating the anatomy with computed tomography and planning the anatomical location of the centre of the relocated hip were mandatory.

Conclusion

Bilateral total hip arthroplasty is a feasible option to manage the rare occurrence of severely damaged bilateral hip joints caused by TSA presenting in adulthood. Reconstructive options for late sequelae should be individualized based on the degree of involvement, hip stability, and patient expectations.

•

Reconstructive options for late sequelae of Tom Smith arthritis should be individualized.

•

Pre-operative assessment with scanogram and computed tomography is paramount.

•

Bilateral total hip arthroplasty is a feasible option for severe late sequalae of Tom Smith arthritis.

The Use of Biomarkers in the Early Diagnosis of Septic Arthritis and Osteomyelitis-A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis of septic arthritis (SA) and osteomyelitis (OM) has remained challenging in the pediatric population, often accompanied by delays and requiring invasive interventions. The purpose of this pilot study is to identify a novel panel of biomarkers and cytokines that can accurately differentiate SA and OM at initial presentation using serum alone.

METHODS

Twenty patients below 18 years old whose working diagnosis included SA (n=10) and OM (n=10) were identified. Serum was collected at initial evaluation. Each sample underwent seven ELISA [C1-C2, COMP, CS-846, hyaluronan, procalcitonin, PIIANP, C-terminal telopeptide of type II collagen (CTX-II)] and 65-plex cytokine panels. Principal component and Lasso regression analysis were performed to identify a limited set of predictive biomarkers.

RESULTS

Mean age was 4.7 and 9.5 years in SA and OM patients, respectively (P=0.029). 50% of SA patients presented within 24 hours of symptom onset, compared with 0% of OM patients (P=0.033). 30% of SA patients were discharged home with an incorrect diagnosis and re-presented to the emergency department days later. At time of presentation: temperature ≥38.5°C was present in 10% of SA and 40% of OM patients (P=0.12), mean erythrocyte sedimentation rate (mm/h) was 51.6 in SA and 44.9 in OM patients (P=0.63), mean C-reactive protein (mg/dL) was 55.8 in SA and 71.8 in OM patients (P=0.53), and mean white blood cells (K/mm3) was 12.5 in SA and 10.4 in OM patients (P=0.34). 90% of SA patients presented with ≤2 of the Kocher criteria. 100% of SA and 40% of OM patients underwent surgery. 70% of SA cultures were culture negative, 10% MSSA, 10% Kingella, and 10% Strep pyogenes. 40% of OM cultures were culture negative, 50% MSSA, and 10% MRSA. Four biomarkers [CTx-II, transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-α), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), B cell-attracting chemokine 1] were identified that were able to classify and differentiate 18 of the 20 SA and OM cases correctly, with 90% sensitivity and 80% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study identifies a panel of biomarkers that can differentiate between SA and OM at initial presentation using serum alone.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II-diagnostic study.

Septic Arthritis of Neonates: Descriptive Study of a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nosocomial Outbreak

Purpose 

This is a retrospective descriptive study of a nosocomial outbreak of septic arthritis in a neonatal intensive care unit with a Pseudomonas species as the predominant organism. There have been no previous reports of the same. The risk factors for this disease were analysed. The different diagnostic modalities that we used are described and the short-term outcomes are reported after antibiotic therapy and surgery.

Methods 

Fourteen patients and 16 joints were included in the study over a three-month period. The risk factors were analysed from the records and included prematurity, birth weight, sex and joint predilection. The causative organisms were also analysed from microbiological profiling. The outcomes after surgery and adjunctive antibiotic therapy were analysed in terms of clinical and laboratory parameters.

Results 

Pseudomonasaeruginosa was found to be the predominant organism in this series. The hip joint was predominantly involved and the majority of the patients were found to be premature. All the neonates affected were found to have low birth weight.

Conclusion 

Prematurity and low birth weight were found to have an association with risk for septic arthritis. In our setting of a nosocomial outbreak, a Pseudomonas species was more common than other organisms. A treatment regimen of arthrotomy surgery and adjunctive antibiotic therapy was found to be effective in all our patients.

Novel Uses of Traditional Algorithms for Septic Arthritis

BACKGROUND

Pediatric musculoskeletal infection (MSKI) is a bacterial infection of the bone, joint, and/or muscle that can be difficult to diagnose. The Kocher and Caird algorithms were developed to distinguish septic arthritis (SA) from transient synovitis (TS) in the hip. These algorithms have been applied to all patients presenting with painful, swollen monoarticular joints regardless of suspicion for SA. The aim of this analysis was to assess the test performance of Kocher and Caird to distinguish MSKI among all pediatric patients presenting with monoarticular joint pain. A secondary aim was to validate the original algorithms.

METHODS

We conducted a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study evaluating the test performance of procalcitonin for suspected SA in a pediatric emergency department. Patients aged 0 to 16 years old who presented with a painful or swollen monoarticular joint were considered for enrollment. We compared the test performance of the traditional algorithms in an expanded population of MSKI versus alternate joint pain using sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC). As a sensitivity analysis, missing data for predictors like temperature, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and inability to bear weight were multiply imputed using the Stata program, mi impute, for changed equations.

RESULTS

The Caird algorithm had better test performance compared to the Kocher in all populations. Both algorithms were most discriminative in comparing SA to TS in all joints (AUC: 0.84 Caird and 0.75 Kocher). However, the Caird criteria performed almost as well discriminating MSKI from other causes of monoarticular joint pain in all joints (AUC: 0.79; 95% confidence interval: 0.72, 0.85) and nonhip joints (AUC: 0.80; 95% confidence interval: 0.71, 0.88).

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings of this study, it is clinically reasonable to apply the Caird algorithm to pediatric patients presenting with monoarticular joint pain of medium and large joints such as the knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, and wrist, in addition to the hip.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-retrospective study of novel applications of SA algorithms.

Septic arthritis in childhood: A 24-year review

BACKGROUND

We investigated the pathogenic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of children diagnosed with septic arthritis (SA) during the past 24 years and identified the risk factors for SA-related sequelae.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients admitted to Fukuoka University Hospital from 1997 to 2020. Causative pathogens were compared between the first (1997-2008) and second (2009-2020) periods. We also compared the clinical and laboratory characteristics in patients with known or unknown pathogens, and in patients with or without sequelae.

RESULTS

A total of 37 patients with SA were identified, including 28 patients (76%) in the first period and nine patients (24%) in the second period. Sixteen of 37 patients (43%) were younger than 2 years, including two neonates. Pathogens were identified in 25 (68%) of 37 patients. Patients with known pathogens had a significantly higher C-reactive protein level on admission than those with unknown pathogens (P < 0.05). The predominant pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus (38%, 14/37). Although S. aureus and Hemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) were predominant pathogens in the first period, Hib was not found in the second period. Six (16%) of 37 patients with SA experienced sequelae. Moreover, the risk factors for the development of sequelae were significantly associated with infection at age <1 month and delayed surgical treatment (>4 days).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of SA had decreased dramatically in the second period, and Hib was no longer the predominant pathogen. Earlier surgical drainage should be performed in neonates with SA.

Preliminary results: continuous double luminal catheter drainage for the management of septic hip arthritis in children

Septic arthritis in children is considered an orthopedic surgical emergency, which requires prompt intervention to prevent later sequela. In the last decades, several minimal invasive techniques were suggested as an alternative to the standard treatment of septic arthritis in the pediatric hip via open arthrotomy. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a new minimal invasive technique-double luminal catheter drainage (DLDC)-in treating septic hip arthritis in children. Retrospective case series analysis was performed on all patients 1-18 years of age diagnosed with septic hip arthritis and treated by the new suggested minimal invasive technique between the years 2009-2019 at medium-sized medical center. Five patients were treated by DLDC with a follow-up period of 12 months posttreatment. The diagnosis was based on joint aspirated fluid analysis criteria. During the follow-up period, no later sequel, including avascular necrosis, or infection recurrence were observed. The new minimal invasive treatment technique suggested in this study seems to be efficient and safe in treating septic hip arthritis in children without later sequela or the need for open arthrotomy, especially if performed early on. However, due to the small study sample, no generalization of the findings can be made as future studies with larger study samples are needed to validate the DLDC technique.

Usefulness of MRI findings in differentiating between septic arthritis and transient synovitis of hip joint in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

Septic arthritis (SA) of the hip joint is a serious infection which can lead to more irreversible complications. Differentiating Septic arthritis from Transient synovitis (which is the most common cause of painful hip in children) is difficult and very important to prevent serious complications which can occur with Septic arthritis. The aim of this study was to find out the MRI findings which can differentiate between these two conditions.

Methods

Systematic literature search was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines on MEDLINE(PubMed), Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and world Health Organization Virtual Health Library, up to April 2022. Studies that compared MRI findings between Septic Arthritis and Transient Synovitis of hip joint in children were included. The pooled sensitivity and specificity estimates of these findings were calculated using MetaDTA version 2.0.

Results

Six studies were included in qualitative analysis and five were included in quantitative analysis. Pooled sensitivity and specificity of synovial enhancement were 94.2 % (95 % CI, 45.2–99.7 %) and 60.6 % (95% CI, 6–97.4 %) respectively. Soft tissue changes had pooled sensitivity and specificity of 75 % (95% CI, 57.5–86.9 %) and 69.9 % (95 % CI, 46.5–86.2 %) respectively. Pooled sensitivity and specificity of femoral head changes were 41.5 % (95 % CI, 15.9–72.7 %) and 87.3 % (95 % CI, 75.5–93.8 %) respectively. Bone marrow changes had pooled sensitivity and specificity of 70 % (95 % CI, 26.8–93.7 %) and 99.9 % (95 % CI, 28.7–100 %) respectively.

Conclusion

MRI findings especially bone marrow changes were found to be useful in differentiating septic arthritis from transient synovitis among children presented with painful hip after exclusion of other causes.

Staged Joint Arthrodesis in the Treatment of Severe Septic Ankle Arthritis Sequelae: A Case Report

Septic ankle arthritis is a devastating clinical entity with high risks of morbidity and mortality. Prompt treatment is necessary because delayed or inadequate treatment can lead to irreversible damage that may occur on the articular surface, resulting in cartilage erosion, infective synovitis, osteomyelitis, joint deformity, and pain and joint dysfunction. An aggressive surgical approach is required when a joint infection causes severe limb-threatening arthritis. A 58-year-old woman visited our clinic with increasing pain in the right ankle, which had been present for the previous 2 months. She complained of discomfort in daily life due to deformity of the ankle; limping; and severe pain in the ankle even after walking a little. The patient reported a history of right-ankle injury while exiting a bus in her early 20s. Plain radiographs of the right ankle joint revealed that the medial malleolus was nearly absent in the right ankle joint on the anteroposterior view, and severe varus deformity was observed with osteoarthritic changes because of joint space destruction. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed diffuse synovial thickening of the destroyed tibiotalar joint with joint effusion. Hybrid 99mTc white blood cell single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography showed increased uptake along the soft tissue around the ankle joint; uptake was generally low in the talocrural and subtalar joints. A two-stage operation was performed to remove the infected lesions and correct the deformity, thus enabling limb salvage. The patient was nearly asymptomatic at the 6-month follow-up, with no discomfort in her daily life and nearly normal ability to carry out full functional activities. She had no complications or recurrent symptoms at the 1-year follow-up. We have described a rare case of a staged limb salvage procedure in a patient with chronic septic arthritis sequelae. For patients with severe joint deformity because of septic ankle sequelae, staged arthrodesis is a reliable method to remove infected lesions, solve soft tissue problems, correct deformities, and maintain leg length.

Acute Arthritis in Children: How to Discern between Septic and Non-Septic Arthritis?

The term septic arthritis refers to an infection of the synovial space. This is an infrequent condition in healthy children, but it should be considered a medical emergency potentially leading to irreversible articular damage. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and antimicrobial treatment play a crucial role in improving the prognosis. Although septic arthritis is the most common cause of acute arthritis, many other diseases may mimic a similar clinical picture, constituting a diagnostic challenge for the clinician who first approaches the patient. Herein we analyze the main features of septic arthritis, offering an overview of the main conditions involved in the differential diagnosis and suggesting a diagnostic workup plan.

One Affectionate Puppy: A Case of Septic Arthritis Due to Staphylococcus Pseudintermedius

We describe a case of septic arthritis caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, a common colonizer of dogs that has emerged as a rare human pathogen. Our patient presented with ankle pain and swelling and was treated adequately with cefazolin/cephalexin and arthrotomy. S. pseudintermedius is often misidentified as other coagulase-positive staphylococcal species and has high rates of methicillin and nonpenicillin antibiotic resistance.

Using a decision tool to evaluate for osteomyelitis in children

ABSTRACT

Osteomyelitis is a common occurrence in children and typically has a prolonged treatment course involving multiple specialties. Historically, the long bones are most commonly affected and Staphylococcus aureus is the primary causative organism.This case shows the value of using the Kocher criteria and acute phase reactant C-reactive protein as diagnostic tools that can be used to advocate MRI to rule out this potentially devastating process.

Septic Arthritis in Paediatric Patients: A 10-year Experience at a Single Institution

Background

We evaluated the clinical presentation and microbiological profile of a cohort of paediatric patients with septic arthritis at a tertiary institution in Singapore.

Methods

After obtaining institutional board approval, records of all patients below 18 years presenting with septic arthritis between 2010 and 2019 were reviewed. Patient demographic and medical data were analysed.

Results

Of 24 patients with 26 infected joints with a mean age of 7.1 years, 50.0% had pre-existing atopic dermatitis. The most common site infected was the hip ( n = 11, 42.3%). The most common pathogen isolated from tissue cultures was methicillin-sensitive-Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) ( n = 9, 37.5%). Twenty-three (95.8%) of the patients underwent surgical drainage.

Conclusions

The skin of patients with atopic dermatitis has been shown to be more frequently colonised with Staphylococcus aureus compared to healthy individuals. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis in our cohort was higher compared to the reported national average of 20.8%. MSSA was the most commonly reported pathogen, and the hip joint most commonly affected. Less than half of the cohort had positive tissue or blood cultures. In paediatric patients with known atopic dermatitis who present with a fever, a painful joint and limited range of motion, septic arthritis should be considered and early drainage and antibiotics instituted.

Pediatric Acetabular Osteomyelitis Treated With Hip Arthroscopy

Osteomyelitis of the acetabulum is a rare condition accounting for only 12% of pelvic osteomyelitis cases. This report describes a previously healthy 10-year-old girl with subacute acetabular osteomyelitis and subsequent development of secondary septic arthritis of the hip. The patient presented with 3 weeks of groin pain, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein, synovial thickening of the hip on ultrasonography and diffuse signal uptake in the acetabulum on magnetic resonance imaging. Despite antibiotic therapy, her symptoms worsened clinically, and repeat Magnetic resonance imaging images showed worsening of the osteomyelitis with likely extension through the acetabulum and into the joint. A hip aspirate was positive for Fusobacterium, an atypical anaerobe. Hip arthroscopy, with identification of the site of extrusion and then extensive débridement and irrigation, was successful in helping to control and ultimately eradicate the infection. The patient regained normal hip function and returned to full activities. This case demonstrates how hip arthroscopy can serve as an important surgical treatment modality for acetabular osteomyelitis with intraarticular extension in addition to septic arthritis of the hip.

Septic Arthritis of the Knee in Children: A Critical Analysis Review

» Septic arthritis of the knee is the most common type of septic arthritis in children, and it may result in irreversible joint damage. » Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen associated with septic arthritis, but other causative pathogens are possible in children with certain risk factors. » The diagnosis of septic arthritis of the knee is based on history and physical examination, blood tests, and arthrocentesis. » Empiric treatment with anti-staphylococcal penicillin or a first-generation cephalosporin is usually recommended but may be tailored according to local resistance patterns and clinical culture data. » Open or arthroscopic surgical debridement including extensive lavage is effective in eradicating infection, and most patients do not require additional surgical intervention.

External Validation of an Algorithm to Predict Adjacent Musculoskeletal Infection in Pediatric Patients With Septic Arthritis

BACKGROUND

Septic arthritis (SA) remains a potentially morbid disease in the pediatric population. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most sensitive tool for recognizing associated osteomyelitis and intramuscular abscess, but is a limited resource. The aim of this study is to externally validate a previously developed algorithm (Rosenfeld and colleagues) to predict adjacent infection in pediatric patients diagnosed with SA.

METHODS

We identified 120 children under 16 with presumed SA presenting to a tertiary referral center between 2008 and 2018. Patients without confirmed SA, those with insufficient data, and patients who did not receive perioperative MRI were excluded, leaving 53 patients. The previous algorithm suggests that patient age (above 4 y), C-reactive protein (>8.9 mg/L), platelet count (<310×10cells/µL), duration of symptoms (>3 d), and absolute neutrophil count (>7.2×10cells/µL) are risk factors for adjacent infection, with 3 or more variables signifying a "positive" result. Comparing against the gold standard of MRI, the accuracy of the algorithm was validated in terms of sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratio (LR), and positive and negative predictive value. Discrimination and calibration of this algorithm have been assessed using receiver operating curve analysis and calibration plots.

RESULTS

The sensitivity and specificity of criteria from Rosenfeld algorithm were 73% and 44%, respectively. Receiver operating curve showed poor discrimination [area under the curve=0.54, confidence interval (CI): 0.26-0.83]. The positive predictive value was 55.9% and the negative predictive value was 63.1% with LR +1.23 (CI: 0.87-1.98) and LR -0.61 (CI 0.28-1.30). Only 53% of patients with 4 or more criteria had an adjacent infection on MRI. Examining our cohort, children with a positive MRI finding had higher mean C-reactive protein (77 vs. 122 mg/L, P=0.04) and were more likely to have waited >72 hours days between symptom onset and hospital presentation (P=0.03).

CONCLUSION

Although treatment algorithms are an attractive tool to guide clinicians and resource allocation, they need to take into account the local population characteristics before routine implementation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV-retrospective cohort study.

Pediatric Septic Arthritis of the Knee Due to a Multi-Sensitive Streptococcus pyogenes Strain Responsive to Clindamycin-A Case Report

Septic arthritis is an inflammatory process usually generated by a bacterial infection. The knee is one of the most frequently involved joints. The etiology varies depending on age, and hematogenous spread remains the primary cause in children. Herein, we report a case of a previously healthy three-year-old female who was referred to our institution for acute swelling of her right knee. After a clinical and radiological diagnosis of septic arthritis, an empirical treatment with a combination of cefotaxime and clindamycin was initiated. The isolation of a multi-sensitive Streptococcus pyogenes strain from the joint’s effusion prompted the discontinuation of clindamycin and the usage of cefotaxime alone. One week later, an ultrasound was executed due to worsening in the patient’s clinical conditions, and an organized corpuscular intra-articular effusion with diffuse synovial thickening was revealed. Cefotaxime was therefore replaced with clindamycin, which improved the symptoms. Despite the antibiotic sensitivity test having revealed a microorganism with sensitivity to both cephalosporin and clindamycin, clinical resistance to cefotaxime was encountered and a shift in the antimicrobial treatment was necessary to ensure a full recovery. This case study confirms that an antibiotic regimen based solely on a susceptibility test may be ineffective for such cases.

Arthrocentesis, arthroscopy or arthrotomy for septic knee arthritis in children: a systematic review

PURPOSE

Septic knee arthritis in children can be treated by arthrocentesis (articular needle aspiration) with or without irrigation, arthroscopy or arthrotomy followed by antibiotics. The objective of this systematic review was to identify the most effective drainage technique for septic arthritis of the knee in children.

METHODS

The electronic PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for original articles that reported outcomes of arthrocentesis, arthroscopy or arthrotomy for septic arthritis of the knee. The quality of all included studies was assessed with the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria. This systematic review was performed and reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

RESULTS

Out of 2428 articles, 11 studies with a total of 279 knees were included in the systematic review. The quality of evidence was low (MINORS median 4 (2 to 7)). A meta-analysis could not be performed because of the diversity and low quality of the studies. In septic knee arthritis, additional drainage procedures were needed in 54 of 156 (35%) knees after arthrocentesis, in four of 96 (4%) after arthroscopy and in two of 12 (17%) after arthrotomy.

CONCLUSION

Included studies on treatment strategies for septic arthritis of the knee in children are diverse and the scientific quality is generally low. Knee arthroscopy might have a lower risk of additional drainage procedures as compared with arthrocentesis and arthrotomy, with acceptable clinical outcomes and no radiological sequelae.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Suppurative arthritis of hip in a walking child: Effect of patient's age, delay in surgical drainage, and organism virulence

INTRODUCTION

We undertook a retrospective study to stratify the effect of patient's age, delay in surgical drainage, and Staphylococcus aureus (SA) virulence on expected clinicoradiological outcomes following suppurative arthritis of hip joint in a walking child.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted in 18 children over 2 years of age who suffered from joint fluid culture-positive SA arthritis of hip joint and treated with open arthrotomy. Outcomes were defined on the following criteria: age of child (≥5 years or <5 years), duration of symptoms elapsed before surgical intervention (≥5 days or <5 days), and virulence of SA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)/methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus)). The final clinical results were graded according to Moon's clinical criteria and radiologically by types described by Choi et al.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 6.22 years at the time of index procedure. The average delay in surgery was 17.06 days. Follow-up averaged 15.28 months. Five patients had associated with osteomyelitis femur in preoperative radiographs. MRSA culture was grown in 8 hips (44.4%) of 18 hips. Unsatisfactory clinical results according to Moon's criteria were obtained in 55.6% patients with 38.9% being MRSA infected. Unsatisfactory Choi's radiological results were present in 33.3% patients, 27.8% under MRSA category. Our study did not find age to be a significant factor either in clinical or radiological outcome. The clinical results were unsatisfactory in 81.8% patients with surgical delays when compared to early surgery (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The clinicoradiological outcome in suppurative hip arthritis of walking children was unsatisfactory when there was delay in treatment beyond 5 days, and the causative organism was virulent (MRSA). The presence of preoperative joint incongruency or osteomyelitis of proximal femur was another risk factor.

Ten-year retrospective review of paediatric septic arthritis in a New Zealand centre

BACKGROUND

Paediatric septic arthritis, although a rare diagnosis in the developed world, remains a significant challenge in the New Zealand population. In recent years, there has been effort to characterize the nature of paediatric bone and joint infection for New Zealand due to rising incidence of osteomyelitis and staphylococcal sepsis [1, 2]. We have sought to identify trends in presentation, diagnosis and management of paediatric septic arthritis, with added focus on ethnicity and access to healthcare.

METHODS

A ten year retrospective review of all cases < 16 years with presumed septic arthritis presenting to a tertiary referral centre between 2008 and 2018 was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 103 cases met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 5.9 years (SD +/- 4.17) with a male predominance (64%). Traditional laboratory culture method isolated an organism in 66% of cases: Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen identified (61%). Incidence varied greatly by ethnicity 1:16,000 for NZ European children; 1:8760 for Pacifica and 1:4300 for Māori. Mean distance travelled by patients to reach the nearest emergency department was 38.3 km, ranging from 2 to 188 km. Assessment using NZ deprivation scores showed the Māori paediatric population were likely to reside in areas of worse socioeconomic deprivation (p = 0.0005). The majority (66%) of cases were treated surgically with a low recurrence rate (2.9%). Delayed presentation was associated with worse outcomes and more likely in patients residing > 20 km away from the nearest emergency department.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of paediatric septic arthritis in New Zealand is concerningly high within Māori and Pacific populations. Future health interventions should consider environmental, socioeconomic, and microbiological trends in the burden of disease.

Septic Arthritis: An Evidence-Based Review of Diagnosis and Image-Guided Aspiration

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this evidence-based review is to equip radiologists to discuss and interpret findings obtained with various imaging modalities, guide patient selection for percutaneous aspiration, and safely perform arthrocentesis to assess for infection in both native and prosthetic joints. CONCLUSION. Septic arthritis is an emergency that can lead to rapidly progressive, irreversible joint damage. Despite the urgency associated with this diagnosis, there remains a lack of consensus regarding many aspects of the management of native and periprosthetic joint infections.

Septic arthritis in children: Updated epidemiologic, microbiologic, clinical and therapeutic correlations

BACKGROUND

Septic arthritis (SA) is an infection characterized by significant epidemiologic and microbiologic differences between developed and developing regions and between age groups.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the epidemiologic, clinical, microbiologic and therapeutic aspects of pediatric SA in Southern Israel.

METHODS

A retrospective case-series study based on the records of children <16 years of age admitted with SA at Soroka Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, during 2006-2013.

RESULTS

189 patients were enrolled. There were 119 (63%) Bedouin and 70 (37%) Jewish children. The knee (39.7%), hip (28%) and ankle (13.8%) were the most commonly involved joints. Blood and/or synovial fluid cultures were positive in 48 (25.4%) patients. Overall SA incidence among children <16 years and <5 years was 11.7 and 25.4/100,000, respectively, without changes throughout the study period. SA incidence among Bedouin children was higher than among Jewish children (15.4 vs. 8.3/100,000 cases). Staphylococcus aureus was the most commonly isolated pathogen (18, 19.5% of all patients), followed by Kingella kingae (10, 5.3%)-(37.5% and 20.8% among culture-positive patients, respectively). The number of children with culture-positive SA that required surgery was higher than those with culture-positive SA treated conservatively (P < 0.001). Hospitalization was longer in children treated surgically than in those treated conservatively (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study is the largest single-center series on pediatric SA published in the last five years and provided an updated picture on incidence and the microbiologic, clinical and therapeutic aspects of pediatric SA in Southern Israel. The study supports a regional presentation pattern of SA and may guide its therapeutic management.

Differential MRI findings of transient synovitis of the hip in children when septic arthritis is suspected according to symptom duration

We investigated the differential MRI findings in children with transient synovitis of the hip in whom septic arthritis was suspected. Under the hypothesis that disease progression can alter representative MRI findings, we stratified these findings in accordance with symptom duration as this can correlate with disease progression. We analyzed 65 children who underwent MRI for acute hip pain and who were suspected of having a septic condition (i.e. presented with fever or increased inflammatory markers) when the imaging was performed. Symptom duration was defined as the interval from the first presentation of hip pain to the MRI scan. We divided the patients into two subgroups according to symptom duration: patients with short symptom duration (≤2 days, short-term subgroup, n = 30) and those with long symptom duration (≥3 days, long-term subgroup, n = 35). Twenty-eight (43.1%) of the study subjects were diagnosed with septic arthritis. Whereas only a high-grade joint effusion was a significant MRI finding differentiating septic arthritis from transient synovitis in the whole cohort, the presence of contralateral joint effusion in the short-term subgroup (P = 0.024) and the absence of a change/enhancement of the signal intensity of soft tissue in the long-term subgroup (P < 0.001) were significant predictors of transient synovitis. The significances of differential MRI findings for septic arthritis and transient synovitis seem to change according to symptom duration. We suggest that symptom duration, which may correlate with disease progression, should also be considered when interpreting MRIs of children under suspicion of septic arthritis.

The Introduction of a Preoperative MRI Protocol Significantly Reduces Unplanned Return to the Operating Room in the Treatment of Pediatric Osteoarticular Infections

BACKGROUND

Pediatric osteoarticular infection can cause severe morbidity. Some infectious loci may be difficult to identify clinically, and there may be more than one. There is little agreement regarding the appropriate use of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in this setting. After noting an unacceptably high rate of unplanned returns to the operating room for recurrent infection, clinicians at a tertiary care children's hospital noticed many patients had adjacent foci of infection on postoperative MRI. As a result, patients experienced prolonged treatment courses and multiple surgeries. An interdisciplinary team instituted practice guidelines whereby all patients with suspected osteoarticular infection underwent MRI for planned debridement during a reserved morning slot with a surgical suite on hold to proceed directly to surgery if indicated. Images were reviewed in real time to form the surgical plan. Young patients that required sedation for MRI were taken to surgery under the same anesthetic used for MRI without being awakened. The purpose of our retrospective study is to determine if implementing the practice guidelines for acute management of osteoarticular infection reduced unplanned returns to the operating room.

METHODS

A total of 93 patients with osteoarticular infection were included in this study. A total of 40 cases, group A, were treated before implementing practice guidelines; 53 cases, group B, were treated after implementing practice guidelines. Our primary outcomes of interest were the identification of adjacent infections prior to surgery and need for repeat surgery, either planned or unplanned.

RESULTS

Implementation of these guidelines reduced repeat surgery from 50% of patients to <27% (P=0.0099). Of patients requiring repeat surgery, 85% (n=17) were unplanned in group A versus 60% (n=9) in group B (P=0.0099). Adjacent infections were identified in 47.5% (n=19) of patients in group A, versus 60% (n=32) in group B. Adjacent infections were known before surgery in 32% (n=6) of patients in group A versus 72% (n=23) in group B. There were no statistically significant differences in initial patient characteristics or sites of infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementing these guidelines reduced the need for repeat surgery in this population. It is difficult to predict with sufficient accuracy which patients need preoperative MRI. While resource intensive, preoperative MRI appears to offer substantial benefit in preoperative planning.

[Evaluation of the impact of the Spanish consensus document on the approach to osteoarticular infections in Spain through the Paediatrics Osteoarticular Infections Network (RIOPED)]

INTRODUCTION

In 2014 the Consensus Document produced by the Spanish Paediatric Societies (SEIP-SERPE-SEOP) was published to help in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoarticular infections (OAI). In 2015 the RIOPed was considered as a multidisciplinary national network for the investigation into OAI. The aim of this study was to assess the level of adaption to the recommendations established in the Consensus during one year of follow-up.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective, national multicentre study was carried out in 37 hospitals between September 2015 and September 2016. The study included patients >16years-old with a diagnosis of OAI, confirmed by microbiological isolation, or probable: septic arthritis (SA) with >40,000 white cells in synovial fluid, or osteomyelitis (OM)/spondylodiscitis (SD) with a compatible imaging test. The results were compared with those obtained in a retrospective study conducted between 2008 and 2012.

RESULTS

A total of 235 cases were included, of which 131 were OM, 79 SA, 30 OA, and 15 SD. As regards the complementary tests that the Consensus considered mandatory to perform, radiography was carried out on 87.8% of the cases, a blood culture on 91.6%, and culture of the synovial fluid in 99% of SA. A magnetic resonance (MR) was performed on 71% of the OM cases. The choice of intravenous empirical antibiotic treatment was adapted to the recommendations in 65.1% of cases, and in 62.3% for the oral treatment. Surgery was performed in 36.8% of SA cases (85.7% arthrotomy), with a significant decrease compared to the retrospective study (P=.014). Only 58.5% of cases followed the recommendations on the duration of the treatment; however, a lower duration of intravenous treatment was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In general, the level of adaptation to the recommendations that were set by the Expert Group, is good for the complementary tests, and acceptable as regards the choice of antibiotic treatment, although inadequate in almost 40% of cases. A decrease in hospital stay was achieved.

Osteosarcoma of the Proximal Femur Mimicking Septic Arthritis of the Hip: A diagnostic dilemma

Septic arthritis is a surgical emergency requiring prompt drainage of the accumulation of pus in the joint. We report an eight-year-old boy who was referred to the Armed Forces Hospital, Salalah, Oman, in 2016 with limping and pain in his right hip along with an abduction deformity. He was initially diagnosed with synovitis and underwent conservative management. However, two weeks later, he presented to another centre due to persistent pain. Magnetic resonance imaging was suggestive of septic arthritis or osteomyelitis. Eight weeks later, the patient presented again to the Armed Forces Hospital. An arthrotomy was performed, during which an amount of what appeared to be frank pus was drained; however, cultures of the intraoperative samples returned no growth. A histopathological analysis revealed an osteosarcoma. The patient was subsequently referred elsewhere and underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy and limb salvage surgery. Several months later, he relapsed and developed extensive pulmonary metastasis and died as a result of progressive deterioration.

Knee Arthritis in Children: When Can It Be Safely Treated With Needle Joint Aspiration? A Large Children's Tertiary Hospital Study

BACKGROUND

Early joint decompression associated to antibiotic therapy is the most important procedure to reduce joint damage in septic knee arthritis in children. Several joint decompression methods have been described such as arthrotomy with open debriding, arthroscopic drainage or needle joint aspiration. The aim of the present study was to determinate which patients with acute septic knee arthritis could be safely treated with needle joint aspiration.

METHODS

Patients with an acute knee arthritis diagnosed between September 2003 and December 2013 in our children's tertiary hospital were retrospective review. All cases were initially treated with needle joint aspiration. Primary end-point was failure of joint aspiration.

RESULTS

A total of 74 patients were included in the study. Forty-two (56.8%) were male and median age was 1.49 years. Mean delay between onset of symptoms and diagnosis was 3.6 days and in 25 (33.8%) cases patients needed more than 1 visit to the emergency room. Median C-reactive protein (CRP) value was 36.3 mg/L and was >20 mg/L in 59 (79.7%) cases. A total of 11 (14.9%) patients showed failure of the joint aspiration treatment between 3 and 21 days after initial joint aspiration. The stepwise forward logistic regression model only identified as independent predictor of joint aspiration failure an age older than 3 years old (odds ratio, 5.64; 95% confidence interval, 1.38-29.61; P=0.018). Joint aspiration did not fail in any patient younger than 12 months and neither in any patient younger than 3 years old with CRP value <20 mg/L. Otherwise, treatment failed in 38% of patients older than 3 years and in 16% of patients between 1 and 3 years with a CRP>20 mg/L.

CONCLUSIONS

Septic knee arthritis treated with needle joint aspiration succeed in all patients younger than 1 year and in all patients between 1 and 3 years with a CRP<20 mg/L. Alternative treatment such as arthroscopy debridement should be early considered in patients older than 3 years and patients between 1 and 3 years with CRP>20 mg/L.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Septic arthritis of the hip and knee treated surgically in pediatric patients: Analysis of the Kids' Inpatient Database

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated incidence over time, any association between race and demographics, and hospital-related parameters in pediatric patients with septic hip or knee arthritis.

METHODS

The Kids' Inpatient Database was used to identify all children with a diagnosis of septic hip or knee arthritis who underwent incision and drainage (1997-2012).

RESULTS

Between 1997 and 2012, overall incidence of septic arthritis of the knee (0.20-0.33 per 100,000) and hip (0.12-0.18 per 100,000) increased.

CONCLUSION

Incidence of pediatric septic joint arthritis, an emergent orthopaedic condition, has increased over time. Patient demographics may vary with respect to both age and race.

Corticosteroids for septic arthritis in children

BACKGROUND

Septic arthritis is an acute infection of the joints characterised by erosive disruption of the articular space. It is the most common non-degenerative articular disease in developing countries. The most vulnerable population for septic arthritis includes infants and preschoolers, especially boys. Septic arthritis disproportionately affects populations of low socioeconomic status. Systemic corticosteroids and antibiotic therapy may be beneficial for treatment of septic arthritis. Even if the joint infection is eradicated by antibiotic treatment, the inflammatory process may produce residual joint damage and sequelae.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the benefits and harms of corticosteroids as adjunctive therapy in children with a diagnosis of septic arthritis.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), in the Cochrane Library, Latin American Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), the World Health Organization (WHO) trials portal (www.who.int/ictrp/en/), ClinicalTrials.gov (www.ClinicalTrials.gov), and Google Scholar. We searched all databases from their inception to 17 April 2018, with no restrictions on language of publication.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with patients from two months to 18 years of age with a diagnosis of septic arthritis who were receiving corticosteroids in addition to antibiotic therapy or as an adjuvant to other therapies such as surgical drainage, intra-articular puncture, arthroscopic irrigation, or debridement.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed eligibility, data extraction, and evaluation of risk of bias. We considered as major outcomes the presence of pain, activities of daily living, normal physical joint function, days of antibiotic treatment, length of hospital stay, and numbers of total and serious adverse events. We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. We assessed the evidence using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) and created a 'Summary of findings' table.

MAIN RESULTS

We included two RCTs involving a total of 149 children between three months and 18 years of age who were receiving antibiotics for septic arthritis. The most commonly affected joints were hips and knees. These studies were performed in Costa Rica and Israel. In both studies, dexamethasone administered intravenously (ranging from 0.15 to 0.2 mg/kg/dose every six to eight hours) during four days was the corticosteroid, and the comparator was placebo. Trials excluded patients with any degree of immunodeficiency or immunosuppression. The longest follow-up was one year. Trials did not report activities of daily living nor length of hospital stay. Both studies used adequate processes for randomisation, allocation concealment, and blinding, and review authors judged them to have low risk of selection and performance bias. Losses to follow-up were substantive in both studies, and we judged them to have high risk of attrition bias and of selective outcome reporting. We graded all outcomes as low quality due to concerns about study limitations and imprecision.The risk ratio (RR) for absence of pain at 12 months of follow-up was 1.33, favouring corticosteroids (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03 to 1.72; P = 0.03; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) = 13, 95% CI 6 to 139; absolute risk difference 24%, 95% CI 5% to 43%).The RR for normal function of the affected joint at 12 months of follow-up was 1.32, favouring corticosteroids (95% CI 1.12 to 1.57; P = 0.001; NNTB = 13, 95% CI 7 to 33; absolute risk difference 24%, 95% CI 11% to 37%).We found a reduction in the number of days of intravenous antibiotic treatment favouring corticosteroids (mean difference (MD) -2.77, 95% CI -4.16 to -1.39) based on two trials with 149 participants.Researchers did not report length of hospital stay. One trial (49 participants) reported that treatment with dexamethasone was associated with a shorter duration of IV antibiotic treatment, leading to a shorter hospital stay, and although duration of hospitalisation was a primary outcome of the study, study authors did not provide data on the duration of hospitalisation. We downgraded the quality by one level for concerns about study limitations (high risk of attrition bias and selective reporting), and by another level for imprecision.In one trial of 49 participants, researchers followed 29 children for 12 months, and parents reported that no children demonstrated adverse effects of the intervention.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence for corticosteroids as adjunctive therapy in children with a diagnosis of septic arthritis is of low quality and is derived from the findings of two trials (N = 149). Corticosteroids may increase the proportion of patients without pain and the proportion of patients with normal function of the affected joint at 12 months, and may also reduce the number of days of antibiotic treatment. However, we cannot draw strong conclusions based upon these trial results. Additional randomised clinical trials in children with relevant outcomes are needed.

Current clinical and bacteriological profile of septic arthritis in young infants: a prospective study from a tertiary referral centre

PURPOSE

The study was carried out to evaluate the clinical and bacteriological profile of SA in young infants (age ≤ 3 months) in a tertiary referral centre and to assess the risk factors and to document the changing trends in the epidemiology.

METHODS

This was a prospective descriptive study on all young infants with SA. Clinical and perinatal history, examination, radiological and laboratory findings (blood count, ESR, CRP, blood and joint cultures) were studied. Emergency arthrotomy was done and antibiotics were administered in all patients.

RESULT

Thirty young infants were included with a mean age of 22 ± 13.6 days and with male-to-female ratio 1.5:1. Pseudoparalysis and pain were the most common presenting symptoms. Knee joint was most commonly involved followed by hip. Ultrasound of the joint (86%) and elevated CRP levels (97%) were found to be reliable diagnostic markers. Most common causative organism was methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (43.3%) followed by Klebsiella pneumonia (23%). Sensitivity to empirical antibiotic regimen was lower (ceftriaxone 53%, amoxicillin 35%) when compared to higher antibiotics (gentamycin 88%, vancomycin 100%). Prematurity (57%), low birthweight (73%), anaemia (80%), previous history of hospitalisation (93%) and invasive procedures (90%) were found to be important risk factors.

CONCLUSION

The disease has distinct regional variations, and the epidemiological and bacterial profile is constantly changing. There is a shift in causative organisms towards more resistant and gram-negative species. Prematurity, low birthweight and previous hospitalisation are the major predisposing factors. A better understanding of the varied presentations is necessary for an early diagnosis and treatment, which is the most important prognostic factor.

Pediatric Lyme Arthritis of the Hip: The Great Imitator?

BACKGROUND

Lyme arthritis (LA) of the hip can present similarly to septic arthritis (SA) and transient synovitis (TS). The primary purpose of this study was to determine clinical and laboratory parameters differentiating LA of the hip from SA or TS among children who had undergone hip aspiration during the evaluation of hip pain.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of all patients who underwent hip aspiration for the evaluation of hip pain at a tertiary care children's hospital in a Lyme endemic area. Clinical and laboratory data were reviewed and comparative analyses were performed between those diagnosed with LA, SA, and TS. Independent samples t test, ANOVA, and χ test were used to compare clinical and laboratory variables as appropriate. Multivariable logistic regression was used to elucidate independent predictors of LA. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05.

RESULTS

Ninety-three hip aspirations (93 patients) were included in the final analysis. Seventeen patients were diagnosed with LA, 40 with SA, and 36 with TS. Multivariable logistic regression revealed febrile history (OR=16.3; 95% CI, 2.35-113.0) and increased peripheral white blood cell (WBC) count (OR=1.26; 95% CI, 1.01-1.58) to be significantly associated with increased odds of being diagnosed with SA versus LA. Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) was significantly associated with increased odds of being diagnosed with LA versus TS (OR=1.06; 95% CI, 1.02-1.10), whereas febrile history (OR=0.06; 95% CI, 0.01-0.49) and increased peripheral WBC count (OR=0.8; 95% CI, 0.65-0.98) were associated with decreased odds of LA.

CONCLUSIONS

Children presenting in a Lyme endemic area with an isolated hip effusion are more likely to have LA versus SA if they have no history of fever and a decreased peripheral WBC count. Compared with TS, patients with LA are more likely to have an elevated ESR. This study adds to existing knowledge because there are few investigations examining isolated LA of the hip.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-retrospective case-control study.

Invasive community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) infection in children: case series and literature review

The majority of CA-MRSA infections present as skin and soft tissue infections such as abscesses or cellulitis. However, CA-MRSA can cause invasive infections such as joint infections, necrotizing pneumonia or septicemia. Here we describe five cases with CA-MRSA bacteremia complicated with osteoarticular infection, necrotizing pneumonia, and infective endocarditis. We report these case series to outline the spectrum of invasive CA-MRSA diseases and to demonstrate clinical outcome. Early proper intervention with regular revisiting the empirical treatment based on local susceptibility data is crucial. More data on the risk factors for acquiring and spread of CA-MRSA in children are required.