Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis means an infection of bone, which can either be acute (of recent onset) or chronic (longstanding). Bacteria are the usual infectious agents. The two likely access methods are by primary infection of the bloodstream (including secondary infection via the blood following an infection somewhere else in the body), and a wound or injury that permits bacteria to directly reach the bone.

In adults, the pelvis and the spinal vertebrae are most vulnerable, while bone infections in children tend to target the long bones of the arms and legs. Without treatment, the infection and inflammation block blood vessels. The lack of oxygen and nutrients cause the bone tissue to die, which leads to chronic osteomyelitis. Other possible complications include blood poisoning and bone abscesses. Treatment options include intravenous and oral antibiotics, and surgical draining and cleaning of the affected bone tissue.