Acute haematogenous osteomyelitis (AHO) in children is a severe condition. A delay in diagnosis and insufficient treatment may result in deformities, chronicity and sepsis. Therefore a structured diagnostic workup has to be followed in order to diagnose or rule out osteomyelitis. To identify the causative agent for targeted antibiotic treatment, a bone biopsy or puncture should be performed. However, approximately 25% of cases are culture-negative even after biopsy. The knowledge of the typical age-dependent bacterial spectrum is essential for empirical antibiotic therapy. The principal causative organism is Staphylococcus aureus. Surgery is not routinely required in paediatric acute osteomyelitis but surgical intervention is indicated if an abscess is detected. Secondary septic arthritis is a serious complication which has to be treated immediately by surgical intervention. Nevertheless, complete regeneration can be expected in up to 80% of children with AHO.
Keywords: Antibiotics; Deformities; Secondary septic arthritis; Staphylococcus aureus; Surgery.