At least once in life, everyone will develop an infection. It may be a simple viral infection, such as the common cold, or a more serious bacterial infection like pneumonia. However, less common infections to watch out for are bone infections, also called osteomyelitis. According to research, it occurs in approximately 25 out of 100,000 people per year.
Infection in the bone marrow from fungi or bacteria, which can originate from wounds or surgical incisions, is a common cause. Left untreated or treated too late, permanent bone damage can occur.
Let’s look at the types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of bone infections.
Symptoms of Bone Infection
Acute osteomyelitis means that the infection has spread to the bone. Symptoms vary according to type, patient, and bone affected. Chronic osteomyelitis lingers in the body and recurs. Vertebral osteomyelitis attacks the vertebrae in the back or hips.
Children with the condition commonly have it in the long bones such as arms and legs, while it usually attacks the vertebrae in adults.
Chronic osteomyelitis doesn’t always cause symptoms. Acute symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and pain in the affected area. Patients may also experience fever, chills, and tiredness. Symptoms are especially prevalent in infants, older adults, and those who have weaker immune systems.
Causes and Risk Factors
The major cause of osteomyelitis is infection from a surface wound or surgery site that reaches the spongy center of the bone (marrow) through the bloodstream. Infected muscles or tendons near the bone can also be a source. A bone infection that results after surgery most commonly involves metal plates or rods that are placed in the bone. Most often, the infection is caused by bacteria, but it may also be caused by fungi.
Smoking is a risk factor for osteomyelitis. Those with chronic health conditions such as kidney failure or diabetes are at greater risk of developing a bone infection. Diabetic patients with ulcers on their feet may develop an infection in the bones of the feet.
Other risk factors include:
- Poor blood supply
- Recent injury
- Illicit drug use
- Hemodialysis
- Weakened immune system
Diagnosis and Treatment
It’s urgent to get treatment for osteomyelitis. If left untreated, it can lead to necrosis (tissue death) and permanent bone loss. Most patients will need to have the affected bone tissue removed by surgery. Surgery is followed by a strong antibiotic given intravenously.
Pay close attention if you have had recent surgery, an injury, or a health condition related to osteomyelitis. Contact a healthcare professional if you have any of the symptoms of a bone infection. Dr Parampreet Singh will administer tests, including blood tests, X-rays, a bone scan, and more, to diagnose osteomyelitis.