Fusidic acid in staphylococcal bone and joint infection.

Over 25 years experience with fusidic acid in the treatment of bone and joint infections is reviewed. Fusidic acid, usually given concurrently with another antibiotic, has proved effective in a wide variety of staphylococcal infections, including acute osteomyelitis and septic arthritis. It is a valuable adjunct to surgery in patients with chronic osteomyelitis. Oral therapy is generally well tolerated, apart from gastrointestinal side effects in a small proportion of cases. Use of fusidic acid in other orthopaedic situations is considered in the light of recent information.