Primary sternal osteomyelitis: a case series and review of the literature.
OBJECTIVE
Primary sternal osteomyelitis is rare in the pediatric population.


METHODS
We present 4 recent cases that demonstrate a wide range in age, presenting features, and clinical course, and we performed a literature review.


RESULTS
A combination of diagnostic aspiration with prolonged appropriate antibiotic therapy led to successful resolution in all cases. Surgical debridement should be reserved for cases that do not respond to medical therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Sternal osteomyelitis is a rare condition in children that usually resolves with aspiration and prolonged antibiotic therapy.
Upadhyaya
Manasvi
M
Department of Paediatric Surgery, Princess Margaret Hospital, Australia.
Keil
Anthony
A
Thonell
Sven
S
Orford
Jillian
J
Burgner
David
D
D000293:Adolescent; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D010019:Osteomyelitis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy*; D013249:Sternum