Initial Evaluation

• Osteomyelitis

• Septic Arthritis

• Pyomyositis

• Abscess

• Postoperative Infection

• Infections from penetrating trauma

• Limited use or immobility of extremity or spine

• Limp

• Inability/refusal to bear weight

• Pain

• Fever

• Tenderness

• Swelling

• Limited range of motion

• Warmth

• Erythema

Order all of the following

• CBC with differential (WBC elevated for age)

• CRP (>2mg/dL or >20mg/L)

• ESR (>40mm/h)

• Blood culture

• BMP

Order depending on affected site

• Plain radiographs: 2 views (AP and lateral of suspected site)

• For suspected pelvis or hip involvement: AP and frog lateral pelvis

• Consider hip ultrasound (bilateral for comparison)