Abstract

Background: Psoas muscle abscess is an accumulation of pus in the muscle compartement caused by a deep infection. This can be either primary or secondary infection. Primary cases of psoas muscle abscess usually appear after infection of the hematoma or spread of bacteria from a distant location to the lymphatic passage. Secondary psoas muscle abscess is often the result of a direct infection or from infection of nearby organs, which may also be associated with trauma or other instruments of groin, thighs and spine or beyond the pillow area. Psoas abscess is rare condition and often delayed because of the presentation of nonspecific symptoms. Case presentation: We describe a case of patient admitted to the hospital with infection of interference screw site after 3 years anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction at the Department of Trauma - Orthopedic Surgery, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital of Medicine and Pharmacy. During treatment, patients present with atypical psoas abscess with high fever and diarrhea and thigh pain. This case illustrates how the diagnosis can be delayed due to its atypical presentation. Hence, highlighting the need for clinicians to have attention of clinical suspicion for iliopsoas abscess in patients presenting with thigh pain and fever and diarhea with the aims of better treatment. Conclusion: It is necessary to consider iliopsoas abscess as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with fever, thigh pain and diarrhea. The rare condition with the varied clinical presentation means that cross-sectional imaging should be indicated early to reduce the risk of sepsis and death.