# Multifocal Osteoarticular Infection by Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus in the Neonatal Period: A Diagnostic Challenge

## TL;DR

A 15-day-old baby developed a severe, multi-site infection caused by a common bacteria, highlighting the challenges in diagnosing such infections in newborns.

## Contribution

This case highlights the rare and severe presentation of MSSA infection in neonates with multifocal involvement.

## Key findings

- The infection started as septic arthritis and spread to multiple joints and muscles.
- The causative agent was identified as methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus.
- The neonate had a prior history of severe dehydration, which may have contributed to the infection.

## Abstract

We report the case of a 15-day-old neonate presenting with multifocal osteoarticular infection, initially manifesting as septic arthritis of the right wrist, which rapidly progressed to involve multiple sites, including the right deltoid and left hip. The etiological agent was identified as methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). This case is notable for its multifocality, the severity of the clinical course in the neonatal period, and the association with a prior history of neonatal admission for severe hypernatremic dehydration.