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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2011; 15(5): 489-505
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1293495
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Tropical Pyomyositis and Necrotizing Fasciitis

Hong Chou1 , Harvey E.L. Teo2 , Niraj Dubey1 , Wilfred C.G. Peh1
  • 1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Alexandra Health, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
  • 2Department of Diagnostic Imaging, K.K Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Republic of Singapore
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Publication History

Publication Date:
11 November 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Pyomyositis is a purulent infection of skeletal muscle that arises from hematogenous spread, usually with abscess formation. Necrotizing fasciitis is a more severe, rapidly progressive infection involving the superficial and deep fascia with necrosis and fluid collections that can be life threatening if left untreated. Both conditions may coexist, and concomitant cellulitis is often seen. A high incidence of these diseases occurs in the tropics, but they are increasingly being seen in temperate countries, due in part to their association with immunodeficiency conditions such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, diabetes mellitus, and organ transplantation. This article aims to familiarize physicians with these entities, review their clinical manifestations and imaging features, and highlight the role of imaging in the management of patients with these conditions.

KEYWORDS

Infectious myositis - muscle infections - necrotizing fasciitis - necrotizing soft tissue infections - pyomyositis - tropical pyomyositis

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Wilfred C.G. PehM.D. 

Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

Alexandra Health, 90 Yishun Central, Singapore 768828, Republic of Singapore

Email: wilfred.peh@gmail.com