Abstract

FERREIRA, Andreia et al. Neonatal septic arthritis: a challenging diagnosis. Nascer e Crescer [online]. 2014, vol.23, n.4, pp.215-218. ISSN 0872-0754.

Introduction: The diagnosis of septic arthritis in newborns is difficult and requires a high degree of suspicion. Case report: We present a case of a newborn who developed right brachial plexus palsy on the 10th day of life. By day 17, limited abduction of the right hip led to the suspicion of developmental dysplasia of the hip. An ultrasound corroborated this diagnosis and the newborn was referred to Pediatric Orthopedics. After proper study the diagnosis of a polyarticular septic arthritis was confirmed. At the age of eight years the child has a right upper limb deformity and shortening. Discussion/conclusion: The delay in diagnosis and treatment of this pathology leads to future sequels that may be irreversible. This report underlines how difficult and important is the early diagnosis of this pathology.

Keywords : Newborn; osteomyelitis; septic arthritis.

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