Definition

Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone. The infection may be:

• Acute (for a short time)
• Chronic (lasting for a long time)

In adults, the pelvis and vertebrae (bones of the back) are the most common sites. In children, the long bones are most likely to be affected. These are found in arms and legs.

Causes

This infection can occur as a result of an injury to the bone. It can also be caused by an infection in the body carried by the blood.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your chance of osteomyelitis include:

• Age: young children and older adults
• Sex: male
• Trauma or injury to the bone and skin
• Broken bones, especially if open to or sticking through the skin
• Diabetes mellitus
• Kidney dialysis
• Intravenous drug abuse
• Weakened immune system
• Poor circulation
• Sickle cell anemia
• Any operation on a joint or bone, such as a hip replacement or internal fixation of a fracture

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Bone pain
• Fever or chills
• Tenderness, warmth, swelling, or redness of the skin or joint
• Drainage of pus
• Nausea
• Fatigue or irritability
• Restricted movement of the area
• A sore over bone that does not heal

Skin Infection Spreading to Bone

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Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include:

• Blood tests—to check for signs of infection
• Needle aspiration of a joint—use of a needle to remove a sample for testing and culture
• Bone biopsy—removal of a sample of bone to test for abnormal cells
• X-rays—bone and tissue changes on x-ray may indicate osteomyelitis
• Bone scan—a series of pictures of bones taken after injection of a small amount of radioactive material that highlights the bones
• CT or MRI—radiographic tests to evaluate any bone changes that may indicate osteomyelitis

Treatment

Your doctor may immobilize the affected area with a splint. He or she may also recommend avoiding any weight bearing on the area.

This infection is treated with antibiotics. They are given by IV and sometimes by mouth.

• Acute osteomyelitis is treated for at least 4-6 weeks
• Chronic osteomyelitis may require antibiotics for a longer period of time

If you are diagnosed with osteomyelitis, follow your doctor's instructions.

Prevention

To reduce your risk of getting osteomyelitis:

• Seek immediate medical care for infections or injuries.
• Keep diabetes under good control.
• Do not use illegal drugs.
• See your doctor for any sores that do not heal.
• If you smoke, quit.