Hematogenous proteus mirabilis osteomyelitis.

Hematogenous gram negative infection of the long bones can present a confusing clinical picture that may delay treatment or lead to an inappropriate choice of initial treatment, and thereby compromise the resuit. This report emphasizes the common clinical features of this condition: previous urinary or gastrointestinal tract instrumentation, a long history of diffuse pain, swelling, and tenderness of the affected limb, weight loss and anorexia, and a potentially nondiagnostic radiographic appearance.