Musculoskeletal infection in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Abstract

Musculoskeletal infection is one of the common manifestations of patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. With immune deficiency, patients are susceptible to a variety of nonopportunistic and opportunistic infections that can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Infection can involve any anatomical compartments resulting in infectious arthritis, osteomyelitis, pyomyositis, and soft tissue and skin infection. Imaging plays an important role in the early diagnosis and treatment planning for these patients. This article reviews the clinical manifestations of musculoskeletal infection together with reported causative organisms. We discuss the role of imaging and present radiological examples. © 2011 Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.