INFECTION OF THE ILIOPSOAS MUSCLE: CASE SERIES AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Sernaqué-Mechato R.A.; Guerrero L.M.; Díaz Torres D.C.; Bedoya-Castillo M. · Revista de la Facultad de Medicina Humana (2025) · DOI: 10.25176/rfmh.v25i2.7431

Resumen

Introduction: Although the literature on psoas muscle abscess suggests a clinical triad characterized by fever, lower back pain, and pain on hip flexion, patients often present with nonspecifIc symptoms, making early diagnosis challenging. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the clinical presentation of iliopsoas abscess cases reported at Hospital Santa Rosa between August 2023 and June 2024. Diagnostic tests, surgical fIndings, and treatment approaches are also detailed. Methods: An observational and descriptive study was conducted to identify all cases involving the iliopsoas muscle. Laboratory and imaging records were reviewed, and the corresponding medical charts were accessed for data collection, with patient anonymity ensured. Results: Four patients were reported, with a mean age of 77.5 years. Most were women with shared histories of arterial hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinical presentation mainly included lower back pain and fever. Diagnosis was achieved via computed tomography in three cases. Although broad-spectrum antibiotics were administered, improvement was only observed after abscess drainage. Conclusions: Psoas muscle abscess is a rare condition with nonspecifIc clinical features. Diagnosis is confIrmed through contrast-enhanced abdominal CT, and the least invasive therapeutic option is percutaneous drainage. Delayed diagnosis may lead to clinical deterioration, increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs for both the private and public sectors.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Ricardo Palma; Universidad Continental