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Soft Tissue Abscess

KEY FACTS Terminology Abscess: Walled-off liquefied collection of necrotic tissue, inflammatory cells, & bacteria Imaging Most commonly affects single site: Typical lymph node location vs. other subcutaneous or intramuscular focus Septic emboli can cause multifocal collections Ultrasound: Excellent for detecting superficial collections & defining drainability Thick-walled centrally avascular collection with surrounding edema ± hyperemia Swirling internal debris upon compression MR: Clearly defines deep extent, evaluates adjacent bone/cartilage/joint, & helps…

Osteomyelitis

KEY FACTS Imaging Long bone metaphyses 70% (femur > tibia > humerus), short bones 6%, pelvis 5%, spine 2% Metaphysis or equivalent > epiphysis, diaphysis Multifocal in 10% overall but 22% in neonates Absence of radiographic bone findings does not exclude early osteomyelitis Earliest finding: Soft tissue swelling next to bone Bone destruction, periosteal reaction by 7-14 days MR: Best advanced imaging choice if diagnosis unclear…

Septic Arthritis

KEY FACTS Terminology Septic arthritis: Microbial (typically bacterial) invasion of joint leading to inflammation & purulence Imaging US: Highly sensitive for fluid distending joint capsule Complexity & volume do not predict/exclude infection MR: Nonspecific joint fluid with synovial thickening Findings favoring septic arthritis over transient synovitis – Presence of marrow &/or soft tissue edema – ↓ enhancement/perfusion of articular epiphysis Top Differential Diagnoses Transient synovitis, juvenile…

Transient Synovitis

KEY FACTS Terminology Idiopathic self-limited inflammation of pediatric hip Synonyms: Toxic synovitis You’re Reading a Preview Become a Clinical Tree membership for Full access and enjoy Unlimited articles Become membership If you are a member. Log in here