X-ray
May be normal early in the course
Later will show bone demineralization, periosteal elevation, lytic lesions
Changes 10-21 days after infection
Sn 43-75%, Sp 75-83%
Blood culture
CT
Sn 67%, Sp 50%
MRI is the standard for diagnosis (as early as 3-5 days after infection)
Bone scan is sensitive, but lacks specificity vs. MRI
May be normal early in the course
Later will show bone demineralization, periosteal elevation, lytic lesions
Changes 10-21 days after infection
Sn 43-75%, Sp 75-83%
Sn 67%, Sp 50%
Osteomyelitis
Cellulitis
Discitis
Hand cellulitis
Knee fractures
Facial cellulitis
Vertebral osteomyelitis
Orbital cellulitis