Evaluation of the current use of imaging modalities and pathogen detection in children with acute osteomyelitis and septic arthritis

Diagnostic tools for the management of acute osteomyelitis (OM) and septic arthritis (SA) have improved over the last decade. To investigate the influence and availability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nucleic acid testing (NAT), a retrospective cohort study was done. Patients admitted with acute OM or SA between 2005 and 2014 were identified using ICD-10 discharge codes. Ninety-six children were identified: OM, n = 45; SA, n = 42; and OM + SA, n = 9. Diagnostic imaging was performed in 100% of OM or OM + SA and 95% of SA patients. MRI was performed in 85% of OM patients, 26% of SA patients and 100% OM + SA patients. In patients with OM or SA, concomitant joint/bone involvement was detected in 24 and 36% of patients, respectively. In 58% of patients, a pathogen was detected (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus pneumoniae being most common). Blood and tissue culture were positive in 41 and 86% for OM patients and in 14 and 41%, respectively, for SA patients. In 42% of patients, no pathogen was identified, of which 40% had no material for blood or tissue culture/NAT taken.

Conclusion: Optimal use of imaging modalities including MRI and systematic pathogen detection including NAT should be advocated to limit use of broad spectrum antibiotics and treatment duration. What is Known: • Magnetic resonance imaging and sonography have the best sensitivity for detection of acute osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in children. • Systematic use of blood cultures, tissue cultures and nucleic acid testing improves pathogen detection in children with acute osteomyelitis and septic arthritis. What is New: • The added value of imaging modalities other than magnetic resonance and sonography for detection of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis is limited, and their routine use should be questioned. • Despite availability of optimal pathogen detection methods, missed opportunities to improve pathogen detection are frequent.