Definition | Causes | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Prevention

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:

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

Bone Infection
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Diagnosis

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

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

For chronic infection, surgery may be required to:

  • Clean infected bone via scraping and irrigating the area
  • Remove any fragments of dead bone or tissue that may prolong the infection

In severe cases, amputation may be necessary.

In some situations, your doctor may recommend a skin graft. The skin in the affected area is replaced with healthy skin taken from another part of your body.

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

Prevention

To reduce your risk of getting osteomyelitis: