Cast abscess: a case report.
This report describes a case in which a pediatric patient wounded his ankle when he stuck an object inside the cast while trying to scratch himself. The wound became infected and resulted in a limb-threatening abscess. Although most patients treated with casts do not have any significant problems, it is important to emphasize cast care instructions to young patients and their parents. In addition, it may be equally important to advise patients about safe methods to alleviate itching, such as blowing cool air under the cast. In this way, the risk of serious infectious complications can be minimized.
Division of Pediatric Orthopaedics, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA.
Kelly D
KD
Carmichael
Nicholas R
NR
Goucher
D000038:Abscess / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D000293:Adolescent; D016512:Ankle Injuries / Q000150:complications; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002370:Casts, Surgical / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003646:Debridement; D004322:Drainage; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011859:Radiography; D012861:Skating / Q000293:injuries; D007507:Therapeutic Irrigation; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D014950:Wounds, Penetrating / Q000150:complications
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents