A localized abscess, also known as Brodie's abscess, occurs after acute suppurative osteomyelitis when the body's resistance is strong and the bacterial toxicity is low. Although the local lesion is not completely eradicated, it remains confined to the center of the metaphysis without spreading to surrounding areas. A circular sclerotic bone band forms around the lesion. This condition predominantly affects young adults and is commonly found at the ends of long bones, such as the upper end of the tibia, the lower and upper ends of the femur, and the upper end of the humerus.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

Local dull pain, swelling, heat, sometimes no discomfort. Once the constitution is poor, it can lead to acute local episodes. X-rays show metaphyseal cystic destruction areas with surrounding bone sclerosis, ranging in diameter from 1 to 7 cm, and sometimes small sequestrum fragments may be present within the lesion. Improvement can be achieved with antibiotic treatment and rest, but it cannot be completely cured and is prone to recurrence.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

Under antibiotic control, local lesion debridement is performed, and cancellous bone grafting is generally sufficient for initial stage healing. Postoperatively, the need for gypsum external fixation is determined based on the size of the lesion.