Learning objectives

  To know the importance of having a high index of suspicion for osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in the neonate.

  To recognise the value of blood cultures to isolate an organism before starting antibiotics.

  To learn the importance in giving high-dose intravenous antibiotics.

  To understand the importance of early drainage and washout of joints in preventing secondary arthritis.

  To recognise the common forms of crystal arthropathy.