Staphylococcal osteomyelitis, sepsis, and pulmonary disease. Observations of 10 patients with combined osseous and pulmonary infections.

The clinical and roentgenographic findings in 10 patients with combined staphylococcal infection fo the bones, joints, and lungs are reviewed. Chest roentgenograms early in the course of the illness suggested septic embolic disease, but in most cases the associated osseous infections were overlooked. Primary therapy, directed toward the sepsis and pulmonary complications, was often unsuccessful until the associated osteomyelitis was recognized and treated. The radiologist and clinician should recognize the roentgen pattern of septic pulmonary emboli and be alert to the possibility of associated skeletal infection. Surgical drainage is often necessary.