Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is a dangerous bone infection caused by bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens that usually occurs after an open incision, surgery, or bloodstream infection. Staphylococcus aureus is the most prevalent culprit, and it can enter the bone by direct injury, such as fractures, or spread from neighbouring contaminated tissues. This disorder can affect any bone, but it is most usually found in children's long bones and adults' spines or feet, especially in people with diabetes or weaker immune systems.
Osteomyelitis symptoms include persistent pain, oedema, redness, warmth around the damaged bone, fever, and exhaustion. If not addressed, chronic infections can cause bone degeneration, abscess formation, and even amputation. Blood tests, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs, and, in certain cases, bone biopsy are used to identify the infection.
High-dose intravenous antibiotics are administered for several weeks, and in severe situations, infected tissue or dead bone is surgically removed. Proper wound care, proper cleanliness, and treating diseases such as diabetes can all lower the risk of osteomyelitis. Early identification and treatment considerably enhance outcomes by avoiding long-term problems and restoring normal bone function.