Publication:

An unusual case of chest pain

Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bones caused by pyogenic organisms. The ribs are an extremely uncommon site for osteomyelitis, occurring in less than 1% cases. The main causative organisms are Gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Hemophilus influenzae. Gram-negative bacteria like E. coli have been rarely reported. Authors hereby present a case of an immune-competent patient who presented with an osteomyelitis of the ribs caused by the latter. In developing countries, tuberculosis is considered as the primary cause of osteomyelitis and pleural effusions. However, other organisms should also be considered in patients who present with fulminant infections.