Neonatal Osteomyelitis

Abstract

Osteomyelitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition affecting the skeletal system of newborns. The condition is relatively rare in neonates but occurs at higher rates in high-risk pregnancies, in preterm infants, and with the use of invasive devices. As a result of the anatomy and immature immune system of newborns, neonates differ in presentation, diagnosis, and management of osteomyelitis compared to patients of other age groups. An understanding of these differences will assist clinicians in the prompt diagnosis and management of this neonatal infection and lead to improved long-term outcomes.