Age Pattern and Bone Predilection in Pediatric Septic Arthritis and Osteomyelitis: A Retrospective Analysis at a Tertiary Care Center
Original Article | Volume 12 | Issue 2 | May-August 2026 | Page: 15-18 | Rupika T
DOI- https://doi.org/10.13107/ijpo.2026.v12.i02.272
Open Access License: CC BY-NC 4.0
Copyright Statement: Copyright © 2026; The Author(s).
Submitted: 03/05/2026; Reviewed: 22/05/2026; Accepted: 16/06/2026; Published: 10/08/2026
Authors: Rupika T [1]
[1] Department of Paediatrics, Apollo Hospitals Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Address of Correspondence
Dr. Rupika T
Department of Paediatrics, Apollo Hospitals Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
E-mail: rupithiru@gmail.com
Abstract
Background: Pediatric musculoskeletal infections, specifically septic arthritis (SA) and osteomyelitis (OM), are significant causes of morbidity. Understanding local epidemiological trends is vital for early diagnosis and empirical management.
Objectives: To analyze age-specific patterns and the anatomical predilection of bones and joints affected by SA and OM in a tertiary hospital setting.
Methods: This retrospective study reviewed pediatric patients (0–18 years) diagnosed with SA or OM over 8 years. Data on age, gender, infection site, and microbiology were analyzed.
Results: A retrospective analysis of 210 pediatric cases revealed a male preponderance (58%). The mean age was 10.8 years. The tibia (21%) and femur (20%) were the most common bones involved in OM. A significant portion of the cohort (29%) presented with SA, with the hip (18%) and knee (14%) being the most frequently affected joints. Chronic presentations and post-infectious sequelae, such as joint dislocations and pathological fractures, were prevalent, particularly in cases involving the proximal femur and hip joint.
Conclusion: Long bones of the lower limb and the major weight-bearing joints (hip and knee) are the primary sites of pediatric musculoskeletal infections at our center. The significant incidence of joint-related sequelae highlights the critical importance of early surgical debridement and long-term follow-up in managing these infections to preserve joint function and limb alignment.
Keywords: Pediatric orthopedics, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, bone predilection, epidemiology.
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| How to Cite this Article: Rupika T | Age Pattern and Bone Predilection in Paediatric Septic Arthritis and Osteomyelitis: A Retrospective Analysis at a Tertiary Care Center | International Journal of Paediatric Orthopaedics | May-August 2026; 12(2): 15-18. |
