A REVIEW OF PSOAS ABSCESS

Psoas abscess is an uncommon clinical entity that can be primary, following haematogenous dissemination of an aetiologic agent, the source of which is usually occult, or secondary, as a result of local extension of an infectious process near the psoas muscle. The triad of presentation; fever, loin pain and limitation of hip movement, may not be found in all patients. The correct diagnosis can be made with a vigilant clinical examination, epidemiological, microbiological and radiological investigations. The main stay of treatment is medical and or surgical drainage of abscess and treatment of the underlying illness. With the resurgence of tuberculosis, consequent upon the HIV/AIDS pandemic, there has been an increase in the number of psoas abscess due to mycobacterial organisms. This is a review of the literature on psoas abscess with highlights on the mode of presentation, diagnosis and treatment modalities. Key Words: psoas, abscess, review African Journal Of Clinical And Experimental Microbiology Jan 2004 Vol.5 No.1 55-6