Chronic, Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is an unusual inflammatory process involving multiple osseous sites, often recurrently. The authors recently diagnosed CRMO in an 8-year-old girl who had complained of toe pain for several weeks. A number of other involved, asymptomatic areas were discovered by bone scan. Biopsy of the lesions did not reveal any pathogens. Antibiotics and inflammatory agents were not used, and the patient recovered. A review of previously reported cases of CRMO showed 1) that this entity affects children almost exclusively, 2) that from two to 18 sites, usually in the extremities, can be affected at one time, and 3) that about 20 percent of the patients develop a pustular rash on their palms and soles. Other than an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, there are no consistent laboratory abnormalities, and cultures of affected bone are negative. Histopathology typically shows a chronic inflammatory response, sometimes with granulomas. Antiinflammatory agents and antibiotics offer little consistent beneficial effect. The disease is self-limited, and patients usually recover fully, although exacerbations may occur. In the proper clinical setting, CRMO should be considered, since recognition of this entity avoids costly and potentially harmful diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.