Presentation may include one or more of the following:
(1) increased ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate)
(2) increased white blood cell count
(3) limp related to the hip
(4) hip deformity
(5) pain in the hip
(6) abdominal, flank, thigh and/or back pain
Features suggesting psoas abscess:
(1) palpable mass
(2) positive psoas sign (pain aggravated by hip extension and relieved by flexion)
(3) fixed flexion deformity with pain on any passive movement
If septic arthritis was suspected, then an aspirate of the hip joint was performed.
If psoas abscess was suspected, then the diagnosis could be confirmed by CT with intravenous contrast or ultrasound. These modalities can also be used to guide percutaneous drainage of an abscess once localized.
