Imaging of Appendicular Musculoskeletal Infections

Musculoskeletal infections are a diagnostic challenge due to their frequently non-specific clinical presentations. Imaging has a key role in the evaluation of various infections affecting the extremities, in aiding timely and appropriate patient management, and reducing the risk of patient morbidity. This book begins by giving an overview and classification of infections that affect the appendicular skeleton, joints and soft tissues. The pathophysiology and histopathology of these infections, and the practical applications of key diagnostic techniques such as microbiology, various types of diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology are addressed. The full range of pyogenic infections, as well as tuberculosis, melioidosis and cystic echinococcosis, are covered in detail. Imaging of various fungal infections and atypical infections are also addressed.  Specific chapters are dedicated to important topics such as post-traumatic and orthopedic hardware-related infections, pediatric musculoskeletal infections, musculoskeletal infections in AIDS, and the diabetic foot. The last chapter provides an algorithmic approach defining the diagnosis and management of appendicular musculoskeletal infections.  This book fills a gap in the literature by providing an updated and richly-illustrated imaging book that comprehensively covers appendicular musculoskeletal infections in a structured fashion.