What are the essential tests that need to be done in pediatric patients with joint infections?

What are the essential tests that need to be done in pediatric patients with joint infections?

Authors: Ali Parsa, Mahzad Javid

RECOMMENDATION: Essential laboratory tests include serum C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), white blood cell (WBC) count, blood cultures, synovial fluid analysis and culture of tissue and/or synovial fluid. Further molecular testing and leucocyte esterase (LE) testing may have a role and warrant further research. Imaging studies include ultrasound in the hip joint. Symptoms lasting over a week warrant investigation with plain radiography. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and bone scanning may have value in confirmation of the diagnosis in some patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Moderate

DELEGATE VOTE: Agree: 88%, Disagree: 6%, Abstain: 6% (Super Majority, Strong Consensus)

Peds-2

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