Primary ilio-psoas abscess extending to the thigh in a neonate: US, CT and MR findings

Abstract

Psoas abscess in children, and especially in neonates, is an uncommon condition which is difficult to diagnose clinically. The US, CT and MR findings of a psoas abscess in a neonate, which extended to the thigh, are reported. Imaging was helpful in revealing the abnormality, in demonstrating its extension and in determining its nature. The child was treated conservatively and the abscess resolved, leaving atrophy of the psoas muscle.

Psoas abscess with associated septic arthritis of the hip in infants

“…Because the iliopsoas muscle inserts onto the lesser tubercle of the proximal femur, it is possible that the psoas abscess could extend to the medial side of the thigh under the inguinal canal [5]. There is a mechanism for spread of infection from the retroperitoneal space and psoas abscesses, into the hip joint, which has been described, as well as a report of spread from the iliopsoas bursa [6].…”

Lateral thigh swelling: an unusual presentation of psoas abscess in a 61-year-old male

“…Some authors have recommended MRI rather than CT as the imaging of choice, as it gives better delineation of the anatomical spread [6].…”

Iliopsoas abscess in the neonate

“…There are reports that magneticresonance imaging (MRI) is useful for the diagnosis. 6,7 Although MRI is a less-invasive diagnostic method, infants sometimes need heavy sedation while MRI is being performed. It is possible to establish the diagnosis and determine the extent of the lesion using a combination of US and CT.…”