About-Bone infection, also called osteomyelitis, is an infection of a bone caused most commonly by bacteria and, less often, by fungi. The infection can develop when germs enter the bone through the bloodstream, spread from nearby infected tissue, or enter directly through an injury, open wound, or surgery. Osteomyelitis can affect any bone, but it commonly occurs in the bones of the legs, arms, spine, and feet. It can develop suddenly (acute osteomyelitis) or persist for a long time (chronic osteomyelitis).
Symptoms of a bone infection can vary depending on the affected bone, the cause of infection, and whether the infection is acute or chronic. Common symptoms include:
Bone infection is most commonly caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus. Other bacteria can also cause osteomyelitis, depending on how the infection reaches the bone. Osteomyelitis can occur when:
Bacteria or other germs travel through the bloodstream from another part of the body to the bone.
An infection in nearby tissue spreads to the bone.
Bacteria enter the bone through an open wound, deep puncture, or severe injury.
An infection develops after bone or joint surgery.
An infected artificial joint or orthopedic implant spreads infection to nearby bone.
In some cases, fungi can also cause osteomyelitis, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
A bone infection can reach the bone in several ways:
Through the bloodstream: Germs from an infection elsewhere in the body can enter the bloodstream and travel to a bone.
From nearby tissue: An infection in the skin or soft tissues can spread into the underlying bone.
Through an injury or wound: Bacteria can enter directly through a deep wound, puncture injury, or open fracture.
After surgery: Infection can occasionally develop after an operation involving a bone or joint, particularly when surgical hardware or implants are present.
A healthcare professional may diagnose osteomyelitis using a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Tests may include:
Blood tests to look for signs of infection or inflammation
X-rays
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
CT scans in selected cases
Bone scans or other specialized imaging tests
A bone biopsy or culture to identify the organism causing the infection
A sample of bone or infected fluid may be tested to determine which antibiotic or other treatment is most appropriate.
Treatment depends on the cause, location, severity, and duration of the infection. Treatment may include:
Antibiotics to treat bacterial infections
Antifungal medicines when fungi are responsible
Drainage of an abscess or collection of infected fluid
Surgery to remove infected or dead bone tissue
Removal or replacement of an infected implant in some cases
Treatment of an underlying condition, such as diabetes or poor circulation
Some people require antibiotics for several weeks, and treatment may initially be given through a vein before switching to oral medicines when appropriate. Chronic or severe osteomyelitis may require both prolonged antimicrobial treatment and surgery.
Seek medical attention if you develop persistent bone pain, swelling, redness, warmth, fever, or drainage of pus from a wound, particularly if you have diabetes, a weakened immune system, a recent injury, or have recently undergone bone or joint surgery. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the infection from causing permanent bone damage or spreading to other parts of the body.
A bone infection, also called osteomyelitis, is an infection of a bone caused most commonly by bacteria and sometimes by fungi. The infection can reach a bone through the bloodstream, spread from nearby tissue, or enter directly through an injury or surgery.
Bone infections are most commonly caused by bacteria, particularly Staphylococcus aureus. Bacteria may reach the bone through the bloodstream, an open wound, an injury, surgery, or an infection in nearby tissue. Fungal infections are less common.
Common symptoms include bone pain and tenderness, swelling, warmth and redness over the affected area, fever, chills, tiredness, and difficulty moving a nearby joint. Some people may also develop pus drainage from the skin or difficulty walking.
Yes. Fever and chills can occur, particularly with an acute bone infection. However, people with chronic osteomyelitis may have few or no general symptoms such as fever.
A bone infection can become serious if it is not diagnosed and treated. It can damage bone tissue, become chronic, spread to nearby tissues, or cause other complications. Early medical evaluation is important when osteomyelitis is suspected.
Many bone infections can be successfully treated, especially when diagnosed early. Treatment may involve antibiotics or antifungal medicines, and some cases require surgery to drain infection or remove damaged or dead bone.
Doctors may use a physical examination, blood tests, X-rays, MRI or other imaging studies. In some cases, a sample of bone or infected tissue is collected for laboratory testing to identify the organism causing the infection.
Treatment duration varies depending on the cause, location, severity, and whether the infection is acute or chronic. Antibiotic treatment may be needed for several weeks, and some people require surgery in addition to antimicrobial treatment.
Yes. Diabetes can increase the risk of osteomyelitis, particularly when a person develops a foot ulcer or other wound that becomes infected and spreads to the underlying bone.
Yes. An infection can spread from the bone to surrounding tissues or, in severe cases, enter the bloodstream. Prompt treatment can reduce the risk of complications.
Yes. Osteomyelitis can sometimes recur, particularly when the infection is chronic or when infected or dead bone tissue remains. Follow-up with a healthcare professional is important after treatment.
An orthopedic surgeon may treat the bone-related problems, while an infectious disease doctor may help manage antimicrobial treatment. Other specialists may be involved depending on the underlying cause and the person’s overall health.
You should seek medical attention if you have persistent bone pain, swelling, redness, warmth, fever, or pus draining from a wound. Medical evaluation is particularly important after a serious injury or surgery, or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.
