Diagnosis and Management of Acute Bacterial Arthritis in Pediatrics
Publication Date: November 6, 2023
Last Updated: December 14, 2023
Lab Testing
In children with suspected ABA, we recommend performing blood culture prior to administration of antimicrobial therapy. (S, M )
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Imaging
In children with suspected ABA, we recommend obtaining plain radiography of the affected joint and adjacent bones rather than not performing plain radiographs. (S, M )
Comment: Despite the low sensitivity of plain radiography for detecting presence of joint effusion or adjacent osteomyelitis on initial presentation, other important etiologies of acute musculoskeletal pain may be identified.
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