A Swelling over Sternum in a Child: Reminder of an Uncommon Diagnosis

Abstract

Lack of awareness about isolated tubercular osteomyelitis of the sternum resulted in a delay in diagnosing the condition in an eleven-year-old girl who presented with a gradually increasing swelling over the sternum. Radiological, histological, and microbiological investigations helped diagnose the condition and the child responded well to antitubercular therapy (ATT) and surgical debridement. The report provides a brief description about the various management options available.

Role of ultrasound and CT in the early diagnosis and surgical treatment of primary sternal osteomyelitis caused by Salmonella: Case reports

“…Due to the rarity of this disease, most pediatricians have not had the opportunity to attend to and treat such cases ( 14 ). Unfamiliarity with PSO may contribute to a delay in diagnosis ( 4 ), and the consequences of such a delay may be hazardous due to the seriousness of potential complications, such as fistula formation, indolent osteomyelitis and mediastinitis, as well as erosion of large vessels ( 5 , 15 ).…”