MICROBIAL PROFILE AND ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE PATTERNS IN ACUTE OSTEO ARTICULAR INFECTION IN CHILDREN

Acute osteomyelitis and septic arthritis are critical infections in children,mainly caused by bacteria.Understanding the epidemiology of these infections and the antimicrobial resistance patterns is essential for optimizing treatment. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to describe the microbial profile and antimicrobial resistance in children with acute osteoarticular infections hospitalized between January 2019 and April 2022.Among 78 children,21 had confirmed microbiological diagnoses, with Staphylococcus species being the most common pathogen. Specifically, 11 out of 14 cases were Staphylococcus aureus, four of which were methicillin-resistant (MRSA). Notably, only 61% of the isolated microorganisms were sensitive to cephalosporins, which are commonly used empirically for treatment. This study highlights the evolving bacterial resistance and the need for tailored antibiotic regimens in pediatric osteoarticular infections.