DigitalCommons@PCOM

Differentiating Between Simple And Complex Pediatric Musculoskeletal Extremity Infections: Identifying Predictors Early In The Hospital Course

Philadelphia

Complex musculoskeletal infections, defined as subfascial reaching infections involving muscle, and/or bone, occur more frequently in our age of increasing antibiotic resistance and bacterial virulence. These infections correlate with longer hospital stays, increased surgical need, and poorer outcomes compared to simple superficial soft tissue infections. Pediatric musculoskeletal infections often have an ambiguous presentation, however, complicating diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The goal of this study is to identify predictors of complicated infections to allow for quick differentiation between simple and complex pediatric extremity infections. By identifying these factors, aggressive treatment of the potentially more serious infections early in the hospital course may improve outcomes. Children with complex musculoskeletal infections present with higher laboratory values, heart rate, and pain scores compared to simple infections. It is our belief, these values may help stratify patients into “simple” or “complex” infection groups. Early identification of patients with parameters correlated with “complex” infections may prevent delays of treatment and potentially decrease length of stay and complications for those with these high-virulence infections.