Abstract
A 20yo male with no PMHx presents to the ED with left elbow pain since 4 days prior to evaluation associated with progressive swelling and inability to fully extend the elbow.
Osteomyelitis is an infection causing inflammation of the bone and bone marrow. It is most commonly caused by direct inoculation, hematogenous or contiguous spread. Most common cause is Staphylococcus aureus. Septic arthritis is a frequent complication and generally presents with synovial fluid containing:
WBC > 50K
PMNs > 90%
Positive Gram Stain or Culture
