Which single organism accounts for the majority of cases of acute haematogenous osteomyelitis at all ages?
- A Streptococcus pyogenes
- B Haemophilus influenzae type b
- C Staphylococcus aureus ✓
- D Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Correct answer: C. Staphylococcus aureus
Explanation
Staphylococcus aureus causes roughly three quarters of cases of acute haematogenous osteomyelitis across all age groups because its receptor proteins allow adhesion to bone matrix components such as sialoprotein and collagen. Pseudomonas is classically linked to puncture wounds of the foot through a sneaker, not to haematogenous seeding. Haemophilus influenzae has fallen sharply since conjugate vaccination.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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