Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is a rare non-infectious disorder. Most patients have a relatively benign course while a few patients can have a prolonged and severe disease.
Cause: unknown. It may be related to the SAPHO syndrome.
Age at onset: from infancy to early adulthood
Clinical findings:
(1) development of multifocal lytic bone lesions over time
(2) pain and swelling associated with the bone lesions
(3) recurrent episodes, with periodic exacerbations followed by remissions
Associated findings may include:
(1) sacroiliitis
(2) arthritis
(3) psoriasis or a pustular rash
(4) inflammatory bowel disease
The typical imaging pattern is osteolysis with sclerosis.
Laboratory findings:
(1) negative cultures for bacteria and fungi (infection excluded)
(2) histologic examination of a bone biopsy shows acute or subacute inflammation
(3) elevated acute phase reactants during an exacerbation
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