Osteomyelitis Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, And Treatment

Osteomyelitis is a bone infection caused by bacteria or fungi . It can make your bones swell and damage, sometimes leading to bone loss. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, and in some cases, surgery may be needed to remove damaged bone or drain abscesses.

Osteomyelitis Overview

• Bone marrow is the soft, spongy tissue found in certain bones like the hip and thighbones , responsible for producing blood cells and platelets.
• It can occur in individuals of all ages and genders, with children under 3, older people, and those with severe medical conditions being more susceptible.
• In children, the infection often affects long bones in the legs and arms, while in adults, it commonly targets the spine.

Types of Osteomyelitis

Causes of Osteomyelitis

• Artificial joints: Surgical procedures involving artificial joints can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream and infect the bone.
• Blood infection : Individuals with bloodstream infections or certain medical conditions like sickle cell anemia have a higher risk of developing osteomyelitis.
• Diabetes: Diabetes can impair blood circulation and weaken the immune system, making individuals prone to infections, particularly in the feet, where ulcers can develop.
• Metal implants: Metal implants can serve as a site for bacteria to cause infection, especially if the implantation site becomes contaminated during surgery.
• Pressure injuries: Open wounds or pressure injuries, commonly known as bedsores, allow bacteria to enter the body and infect the underlying bone tissue.
• Bone surgery: Breaks in the bone or surgical procedures involving bones can increase the risk of infection, as bacteria can enter through the broken skin.
• Traumatic injury: Any traumatic injury or wound penetrating the skin can introduce bacteria into the body, leading to bone infection.
• Weak immune system: Individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, or certain medications are more susceptible to infections, including osteomyelitis.

Symptoms of Osteomyelitis

• Fever
• Irritability or lethargy
• Limited, painful movement
• Loss of appetite
• Lower back pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating or chills

Diagnosis of Osteomyelitis

• Blood tests: These check for signs of inflammation and infection. They might also look for bacteria in your bloodstream.
• Imaging tests: X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds take pictures of your bones, muscles, and tissues.
• Bone scan: This uses a small amount of safe, radioactive material to find infections or fractures.
• Biopsy: Your provider may take fluid, tissue, or bone samples to check for signs of infection using a needle.

What are the Risk Factors for Osteomyelitis?

• Diabetes affects the bone blood supply.
• Excess drug use
• Hemodialysis for kidney issues
• Tissue trauma around bones
• Infected artificial joints or hardware
• Sickle cell disease
• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
• Smoking

Complications of Osteomyelitis

• Abscesses: Infection can spread to muscles and soft tissue, forming pus pockets that may come through the skin. Chronic cases may lead to recurring abscesses, and draining them might slightly raise the risk of skin cancer.
• Bone death: ]Bone death, also known as osteonecrosis, can happen if the infection cuts blood flow to the bone. In severe cases, this could result in limb loss or amputation.
• Stunted growth: Osteomyelitis in children who are still growing may face bone development.

Management and Treatment of Osteomyelitis

• Antibiotics: These medications kill bacteria causing the infection. Treatment typically lasts four to eight weeks, starting with IV antibiotics in the hospital for one to two weeks, followed by oral medications for several weeks. Chronic infections may need months of antibiotics.
• Antifungals: For fungal infections, oral antifungal medications are necessary for months.
• Needle aspiration: A fine needle can drain fluid and pus from the wound.
• Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and inflammation.

Surgical Methods to Treat Osteomyelitis

• Bone surgery: The infected dead tissue and bone are removed surgically.
• Spine surgery: For vertebral osteomyelitis, spine surgery may be required to prevent the vertebrae from collapsing and causing damage to the spinal cord and nerves.

How can Osteomyelitis be Prevented?

• Wound Care: Clean and treat wounds to prevent bacterial entry and infections. This includes promptly cleaning any cuts, scrapes, or wounds with soap and water, applying antiseptic ointments, and covering them with sterile bandages.
• Early Diagnosis: If you've recently experienced a bone break, undergone surgery, or have an artificial joint, it's crucial to seek medical attention at the first sign of any infection.
• Hygiene includes regular handwashing with soap and water, especially before handling wounds or touching surgical sites.
• Healthy Lifestyle: This involves eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, exercising regularly, managing chronic conditions like diabetes effectively, and avoiding habits like smoking that can weaken the immune system.
• Medical Advice: This may include following medication regimens, attending regular check-ups, and following specific wound care protocols.