Osteomyelitis is an infection that impacts bone tissue. This infection can originate in the bones, or it can spread from another part of the body. Treatment typically entails a combination of surgery and medication, such as antibiotics.
Signs of a bone infection can include:
Keep in mind that osteomyelitis does not always cause symptoms. Additionally, symptoms often mimic other medical disorders.
Without treatment, bone tissue can die (which is known as osteonecrosis). With children, infections in bone tissue can stunt normal growth and development. Osteomyelitis can also increase a person’s risk of skin cancer or lead to joint infections.
Osteomyelitis often results from a staphylococcus bacterial infection. Staph bacteria can make its way into the blood, which can then spread to bone tissue. Infections can result from serious injuries or even surgery in some cases.
Some people have a greater risk of developing bone infections than others. This is true of:
Additionally, use of medical tubing, such as catheters and dialysis machines, can also increase a person’s risk of osteomyelitis.
Surgery can be used to remove infected bone tissue and prevent the infection from spreading further. Bone grafts may also be necessary if a significant portion of the bone has been impacted by an infection. In severe cases, doctors may recommend amputation to stop the infection from impacting other areas of the body.
Along with surgery, doctors will administer intravenous antibiotics to treat the infection. Intravenous antibiotics are often administered for up to six weeks, at which point patients may be able to switch to oral medication.