Neonatal osteomyelitis. Radiographic findings and prognosis in relation to site of involvement.

Forty patients with hematogenous osteomyelitis in the neonatal period were followed up for one to 11 years. Early symptoms and radiographic abnormalities are described and the importance of early diagnosis and early treatment is emphasized. Course and sequelae are discussed in relation to different sites of involvement. Ten children had severe sequelae, 2 after vertebral infection and 8 after involvement of the lower extremities and pelvis; 6 had moderate sequelae and 24 were well at follow-up. Retarded growth may cause gradually increasing symptoms, this makes it advisable to follow the patients for a long time.