Atopic dermatitis and Staphylococcus aureus-induced osteomyelitis--a peculiar association in a case.

A 4-year-old boy with atopic dermatitis who was demonstrated to have cutaneous colonization with Staphylococcus aureus did not respond favorably to topical medication (steroid-antibiotic combination). Incidental detection of severe osteomyelitis, that proved to be due to infection with S. aureus, led to institution of systemic antibiotic therapy along with surgical removal of the involved bone. A very favorable response in the cutaneous eruption followed. Certain unusual findings related to the osteomyelitis are highlighted.