Community acquired MRSA sub-acute osteomyelitis of the tibia in a child

Abstract

A previously fit and well child attended accident and emergency with increasing pain in his left lower leg after sustaining a laceration to the pre-tibial border of his left leg at a local swimming pool 2 months previously. X-rays at time of presentation showed the formation of a Brodie's abscess. Following incision, debridement and drainage, samples sent to the laboratory confirmed histological features consistent with sub-acute osteomyelitis. Microscopy and Cultures demonstrated Methacillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) of a type seen in community acquired infection. Based on this report we would advocate MRSA being considered as a possible causative organism in acute or sub-acute osteomyelitis even in an otherwise healthy child with no prior hospital exposure.