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

Causes

Osteomyelitis is caused by specific bacteria.

Risk Factors

Osteomyelitis is more common in males, or in young children and older adults. Other factors that increase your chance of osteomyelitis include:

• Trauma or injury to the bone and skin
• Broken bones, especially if open to or sticking through the skin
• Soft tissue infection
• Diabetes
• Kidney dialysis
• IV 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 a bone that does not heal

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Your bodily fluids and tissues may be tested. This can be done with:

• Blood tests
• Bone biopsy

Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with:

• X-ray
• Bone scan
• CT scan
• MRI scan

Treatment

The affected area may be treated with a splint to prevent it from moving. Avoiding weight bearing activities may also be advised.

This infection is treated with antibiotics. They are given by IV and sometimes by mouth. Acute osteomyelitis is generally treated for at least 4-6 weeks. Chronic osteomyelitis may require antibiotics for a longer period of time.

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, talk to your doctor about how you can successfully quit.

Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.org

Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org

Carek PJ, Dickerson LM, et al. Diagnosis and management of osteomyelitis. Am Fam Physician. 2001;63(12).

Osteomyelitis. Cleveland Clinic website. Available at:
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/orthopaedics-rheumatology/diseases-conditions/hic-osteomyelitis.aspx
Updated September 3, 2014. Accessed June 11, 2015.

Osteomyelitis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated June 8, 2015. Accessed June 11, 2015.

Osteomyelitis. Nemours’ Kids Health website. Available at:
http://kidshealth.org/teen/diseases_conditions/bones/osteomyelitis.html
Updated October 2013. Accessed June 11, 2015.