The Bone and joint infection CPG has been updated by the CPG Committee. This CPG was previously called “Osteomyelitis and septic arthritis”.

The Key points for the CPG are

1. Osteomyelitis and septic arthritis should be suspected in any child presenting with fever, pain and limited use of the affected limb or joint
2. Urgent surgical intervention reduces the risk of serious complications in septic arthritis, but should not delay antibiotics
3. Always consider alternate diagnoses such as trauma, non-accidental injury, inflammatory conditions and malignancy