Pyomyositis: cervical localization

J Rheumatol. 1993 Aug;20(8):1411-3.

Abstract

We describe an uncommon case of cervical pyomyositis in a 60-year-old woman without predisposing factors, admitted for cervicobrachial neuralgia with fever and paravertebral contracture. Ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) showed a collection in the left longissimus capitis. Ultrasonography guided needle aspiration yielded thick pus, which cultured Staphylococcus aureus. Our patient completely recovered after antibiotherapy. Pyomyositis is rare and most commonly affects rhizomelic muscles (cervical localization is extremely rare) and occurs in patients with predisposing factors. Staphylococcus aureus is responsible for over 85% of cases; ultrasonography and CT scan are useful for abscess localization and aspiration.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Myositis / diagnosis
  • Myositis / diagnostic imaging
  • Myositis / microbiology*
  • Neck Muscles* / diagnostic imaging
  • Neck Muscles* / pathology
  • Staphylococcal Infections*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / isolation & purification
  • Suppuration / microbiology
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Ultrasonography