After a case of purulent otitis a 1-year-old boy has developed pains in the upper third of the left thigh, body temperature up to 39°C. Objectively: swelling of the thigh in its upper third and smoothed out inguinal fold. The limb is in semiflexed position. Active and passive movements are impossible due to severe pain. What diagnosis is most likely?

Answer options

1. Brodie’s abscess
2. Intermuscular phlegmon
3. Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis
4. Osteosarcoma
5. Acute coxitis

Explanation

Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis is the most common type of bone infection. It is usually seen in children and is more common in boys. The infection generally occurs in areas of high metabolic activity and commonly affects the distal femoral and proximal tibial metaphysis.