Unveiling the Rare: Sternoclavicular Joint Brucellosis Osteomyelitis—A Case Report and Literature Review

TL;DR

A rare case of sternoclavicular joint osteomyelitis caused by brucellosis is reported, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Contribution

This paper presents a rare case of SCJ osteomyelitis due to brucellosis and emphasizes diagnostic and management insights.

Findings

SCJ osteomyelitis secondary to brucellosis is exceptionally rare and challenging to diagnose.

Advanced imaging and serology confirmed the diagnosis and guided successful antibiotic treatment.

Differentiating osteomyelitis from arthritis is crucial in atypical presentations.

Abstract

Brucellosis, an endemic zoonotic infection, often presents with musculoskeletal complications, but sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) osteomyelitis is exceptionally rare. We report a case of a 49-year-old male with SCJ osteomyelitis secondary to brucellosis, emphasizing the diagnostic challenges and management. Advanced imaging and serology were pivotal in confirming osteomyelitis, underscoring the need for clinical suspicion in endemic regions. The patient achieved full recovery with a combination of antibiotics. This case highlights the importance of differentiating osteomyelitis from arthritis in atypical presentations.

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