Septic arthritis in a neonate

In the light of one case of septic arthritis in a one month old girl, the problem of septic arthritis and osteomyelitis in children in general is reviewed in this article. Early detection of the condition and the causing agent (newborns from gram-negative coliform bacteria, staphylococcus and group B beta-hemolytic streptococcus, in older children mainly staphylococcus but also Haemophilus influenzae), correct selection of antibiotics, open drainage of the suppurative area and a careful, long-term follow up of the case are stressed.