Acute osteomyelitis, thrombophlebitis, and pulmonary embolism: a case report

Background Septic pulmonary embolism (SPE), deep vein thrombophlebitis (DVT), and acute osteomyelitis (AOM) form a triad that is rarely seen in children and is usually associated with a history of trauma on long bones. Unfortunately, a delay in diagnosis is frequently observed in this syndrome, which places the patient at risk of life-threatening complications. This delay can largely be attributed to the failure to consider osteomyelitis as a potential underlying cause of DVT. Case presentation In this case report, we present the case of a 16-year-old Arabian male who presented with limb trauma and fever. The patient had a delayed diagnosis of osteomyelitis, which resulted in the formation of an abscess and subsequent joint destruction. Surgical drainage and joint replacement surgery were deemed necessary for treatment. Conclusions persistent fever along with a history of trauma on a long bone with signs of DVT of the limb in a child should raise concern for osteomyelitis and an MRI evaluation of the limb should be obtained. Keywords: Acute osteomyelitis, Thrombophlebitis, Pulmonary embolism, MRI, Trauma