Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that arises when certain microbial
agents and conditions are found. Common situations include:
- Open injury to the bone, such as an open fracture
where bone ends are piercing the skin;
- Infection from elsewhere in the body spreads to the
bone through the bloodstream;
- A minor trauma, which can result in a blood clot
around the bone, and a secondary infection from bacteria;
- Bacteria in the bloodstream deposited in an area of
bone. The bacteria grow, causing bone destruction.
- Chronic open wounds or soft tissue localized infection extending down to the bone surface and leading to secondary bone infection/
If not treated, osteomyelitis can be chronic and result in loss of blood supply to the affected bone. It can occur in children or adults. In children, osteomyelitis usually affects the adjacent ends of large bones (such as the femur and tibia in the legs and the humerus and radius in the arms). In adults, the vertebrae and pelvis are usually affected.
Those most at risk for osteomyelitis are:
- Diabetics
- Patients receiving hemodialysis
- Those with weakened immune systems
- Those with sickle cell anemia
- Intravenous drug users
- Elderly
Symptoms can include:
- Pain or tenderness, or swelling and warmth in the
affected area
- Fever
- Nausea
- General discomfort
- Drainage of pus through the skin
- Excessive sweating or chills
- Lower back pain
- Ankle, feet and leg swelling
- Gait changes to compensate for pain in the affected bone area
Diagnostic Procedures:
- Complete physical examination
- Signs and symptoms of swelling, redness or tenderness
in affected areas
- Possible blood test or culture
- Possible needle aspiration
- Possible biopsy or bone scan
Treatment:
- Antibiotics to attack the bacteria
- Drainage of open wounds or abscesses
- Splinting or cast immobilization to avoid further
trauma
- In cases of well-established bone infections, surgery may be recommended
Source: Centers for Disease Control |
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