Acute intramuscular infection secondary to haematogenous spread of the microorganism into the body of a skeletal muscle, most commonly caused by Staph. aureus

Aetiology

Risk factors

• PWIDs
• Diabetes meletus
• Immunosuppressed

Causative organisms

• 90% staphlococcal
• Some site specific e.g. GNB in perineum
• Immunosuppressed - psudomonas, beta haemolytic strep. enterococcus
• In tropical climates - MSSA infection in immune competent patients and children
• Clostridium infection possible in contaminated wounds

Clinical features

• Pain and swelling of the affected area (usually lower extremities)
• Fever

Investigations

• Imaging: US, CT, MRI
• Microbiology: pus discharge culture and sensitivity

Management

• Antibiotics and surgery (debridement)