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Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis
What is Osteomyelitis?
Osteomyelitis is an inflammation or swelling of bone tissue that is usually the result of an infection. Osteomyelitis can affect anyone, from infants and children to the elderly. It is more common in infants, children and older adults.
Common causes of osteomyelitis include:
- Bacterial infection in the blood (sepsis)
- Frequent medication injections
- Use of prosthetics
- Infection near the bone
Osteomyelitis Symptoms
Symptoms of osteomyelitis vary, depending on the cause and if it is a rapid or slow onset of infection. Individuals may experience symptoms differently. The symptoms of osteomyelitis may resemble other medical conditions, so it is important to consult an orthopaedic specialist for a diagnosis.
Symptoms of osteomyelitis may include:
- Fever
- Irritability
- Swelling, redness or warmth near the affected area
- Difficulty moving joints
- Difficulty bearing weight or walking
Diagnosing Osteomyelitis
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for osteomyelitis may include:
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
- C-reactive protein (CRP)
- Needle aspiration or bone biopsy
- X-ray
- Radionuclide bone scan
- Computed tomography scan (CT or CAT scan)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasound
Osteomyelitis Treatments
The goal for treatment of osteomyelitis is to cure the infection and minimize any long-term complications. Osteomyelitis treatments may include:
- Medications
- Ongoing monitoring using X-rays and blood tests
- Bed rest or restricted movement
- Surgery or other intervention to drain fluid or remove damaged tissue and bone
Osteomyelitis requires long-term care to prevent further complications, such as:
- Fractures of the affected bone
- Stunted growth in children (if the infection has involved the growth plate)
- Gangrene infection in the affected area
Orthopaedic Surgical Oncology Program
See a Stanford specialist to learn about your treatment options. Visit our clinic to make an appointment.
Osteomyelitis
Our orthopedic doctors specialize in treating osteomyelitis, a swelling of the bone tissue, providing long-term care to prevent complications.
Osteomyelitis
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