Iliopsoas abscess in infants: A case report

Abstract

Introduction. Iliopsoas abscess is a rare condition, which may be categorized as primary or secondary. Primary iliopsoas abscess is caused by lymphohematogenous spread of infectious agents from a distant site, unlike secondary iliopsoas abscess that is a result of direct spread of a nearby infectious or inflammatory process. The diagnosis and treatment of primary iliopsoas abscess are often prolonged, due to the rarity of the disease and the nonspecific signs and symptoms. Case Report. This study presents a case of a onemonth old infant with a left-sided iliopsoas abscess. The physical examination revealed a swelling with a pronounced vascular pattern in the area of the left groin. Laboratory findings showed leukocytosis and increased inflammatory markers. An abscess within the left hemiabdomen and inguinofemoral region was diagnosed by ultrasonography and computerized tomography. The main therapeutic approach included antibiotic therapy, as well as surgical drainage of the abscess. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from a 100 ml sample of the drained abscess. The treatment outcome was good. Conclusion. Given the frequency of iliopsoas abscess in infants, which is far less common than other primary diseases, greater attention must be paid to symptoms and signs during clinical examination, along with the appropriate choice of diagnostic procedures. Timely diagnosis, as well as adequate treatment of iliopsoas muscle abscess, is imperative in order to prevent the development of complications, such as systemic inflammation and sepsis.