Published on December 10, 2024
Description
An infection in a bone.
Overview
Osteomyelitis can infect one or more parts of a bone. Infections can reach a bone through the bloodstream or from nearby infected tissue. Infections also can begin in the bone if an injury opens the bone to germs.
Symptoms
Symptoms of osteomyelitis may include swelling, warmth and tenderness over the area of the infection, fever, pain and tiredness.
Treatments
Treatment is usually surgery to remove portions of bone that are infected or dead. After surgery, most people get strong antibiotics for at least six weeks through a vein in the arm.