Eikenella corrodens skull infection: A case report with review of the literature

BACKGROUND Subgaleal abscesses and skull osteomyelitis are very uncommon since the introduction of antibiotics. Eikenella corrodens infection is extremely rare in childhood and has never been reported in calvarial osteomyelitis. METHODS We present a previously healthy 9-year-old boy, with a history of frontal contusion without injury, who developed E corrodens osteomyelitis of the skull. The radiographic findings are reviewed, including skull films and computed tomographic scans. The patient underwent surgical debridement of the lesion, as well as systemic medical therapy with amoxicillin. We review the medical and surgical therapy for such lesions. The differential diagnosis of a posttraumatic scalp swelling is also reviewed. RESULTS Good resolution after debridement and antibiotic therapy is reported. CONCLUSIONS Surgical intervention is emphasized for the removal of bony sequestrum and nonviable bone while maintaining an intact dura.