SALMONELLA OSTEOMYELITIS IN SICKLE-CELL DISEASE CHILDREN IN THE EAST-END OF LONDON

Five cases of Salmonella osteomyelitis are presented in children with sickle cell disease living in the East End of London. Four of these ha d involvement of the long bones and one (an infant) presented with han d-foot syndrome. Four required surgical drainage of pus and all requir ed lengthy therapy with antibiotics. Factors contributing to the incre ased susceptibility of these patients to invasive disease with Salmone lla sp. are discussed as ale the clinical features, surgical and antib iotic management and possible preventative measures.