Hematogenous, Long Bones

- Surgical debridement and drainage of associated soft tissue abscesses recommended.

- Recommend minimum 2 weeks IV antibiotics. Switch to oral agents with good bioavailability and bone penetration [Clin Pharmacokinetics 2009:48;89-124] may be considered with clinical improvement. Oral ß-lactams should not be used as low bioavailability. Ceftriaxone 2g IV daily may be an option for outpatient management [Clin Infect Dis 2012:54; 585-90] but has not been studied in a prospective, randomized controlled trial.

 
Usual Pathogens

S. aureus/MRSA

 
Rare:

Streptococcus spp
Enterobacterales
M. tuberculosis (consult ID)
Dimorphic fungi (consult ID)

 

Empiric Therapy Dose Duration
Cloxacillin 2g IV q4h 4-6 weeks
or    
Cefazolin 2g IV q8h 4-6 weeks

Cefazolin allergy

Empiric Therapy Dose Duration
Vancomycin 15mg/kg IV q12h 4-6 weeks

If MRSA suspected

Empiric Therapy Dose Duration
Vancomycin 15mg/kg IV q12h minimum 8 weeks