It is a pyogenic (bacteria) infection of the bone. It is very disastrous and quite difficult to treat. In fact, if not treated on time, it can cause BONE DEATH in case of chronic osteomyelitis.
The most common cause is staphylococcus aureus but sickle cell disease patients are as well susceptible to Salmonella spp.
In fact, chronic osteomyelitis globally remains a major cause of musculoskeletal morbidity (bone problem).
RISK FACTORS FOR DEVELOPING OSTEOMYELITIS
- Trauma
- Prolonged use of steroid
- Diabetes mellitus
- Commoner in children
- Sickle cell disease
CLINICAL FEATURES
- Pain
- Swelling
- Fever
- Refusal to bear weight
- Sinus in case of chronic osteomyelitis
INVESTIGATIONS
Your doctor will request for the following investigations:
- Blood culture
- Full blood count
- X-ray of the bone: – Though this can only detect extensive bone loss and cannot be relied on, especially in early disease.
- Computed tomography
- Magnetic resonance imaging. This is the investigation of choice.
TREATMENT
The line of management is both medical and surgical. You will DEFINITELY need your doctor.
FURTHER READING
- Bailey and Love’s Short Practice of Surgery.
- The bone and joint journal, London.
Dr. Adeyemo Olusola is a medical graduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Nigeria along with certificate in advanced diploma in Principles of Nutrition, Management and Leadership, Dublin and Certificate in Global Health from London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. In addition to his numerous certifications, he is a certified Telemedicine Physician from Harvard Medical School, USA. He is an avid reader of books from different oases of life, expert in Medical Statistics and an award winner at both local and international level. “So many a time, I have seen people die avoidable death because of lack of knowledge or information, falling victim of fate. There is then a necessity laid on us to help arm our society to the teeth, as a healthy society cannot be detached from an informed one. Hence, there is need for healthgist.net. We hope you will have a wonderful stay on our website.”
