Osteomyelitis Flashcards
Define osteomyelitis
Infection of the bone leading to inflammation, necrosis & new bone formation
Can be:
Acute
Subacute
Chronic
Aetiology of osteomyelitis
general + 2 organisms
Bacterial infection from indirect inoculation from skin (e.g. trauma, operative, chronic skin ulcers, haematogenous spread)
Causative organisms
Staphylococcus aureus
Group A streptococcus
Risk factors for osteomyelitis
5
Diabetes Immunosuppression IV drug use Prostheses Sickle cell anaemia
Epidemiology of osteomyelitis
age x2
Mostly in YOUNG CHILDREN
< 20% cases are in adults
Presenting symptoms of osteomyelitis
5
Pain in affected area Fever Malaise Rigors History of preceding skin lesion, sore throat, trauma or operation
Signs of osteomyelitis on physical examination
6
Localised erythema
Tenderness
Swelling
Warmth
Painful/limited movement of affected limb
Seropurulent discharge from associated wound or ulcer
Investigations for osteomyelitis
4 types
Bloods
Swabs of wound or discharge
Radiographs
Radioisotope bone scan
Investigations for osteomyelitis - bloods
4
FBC
Blood culture
ESR
CRP
Investigations for osteomyelitis - radioisotope bone scan
Shows area of increased activity