We all think that bones are the strongest part of our body and do not get sick easily, right? But did you know that just like our skin, our bones can also become infected with germs? In medicine, when germs enter the bones and cause an infection, we call it Osteomyelitis. This is a serious condition that requires attention. So today, let's talk about it in a simple way.
How do germs get into these bones?
You might be wondering how a germ can get into this strong bone inside the body. There are several main ways for that to happen.
- Spread through the blood: Imagine you have something else in your body, like a large lump on your skin or an infection in your lungs. The bacteria that caused this infection can get into your bloodstream, travel with the blood, and travel to a bone, where it can start an infection.
- Direct entry through a wound: If you have a large wound, especially one that is severe enough to break a bone (an open fracture), germs from the environment can enter the bone directly through that wound.
- After surgery: Sometimes, this condition can occur after bone surgery, such as a hip replacement, as germs can enter the area.
Most often, this condition of ``Osteomyelitis`` is caused by a type of bacteria that we have all heard of called ``Staphylococcus aureus.`` Although this is a bacteria that is normally found on our skin, it can cause serious infections when it gets inside the body.
Who is most at risk of developing this disease?
Although anyone can develop this disease, some people are at higher risk due to weakened immune systems and other illnesses. See the table below for a list of those at risk.
| Risk Factor | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | Most osteomyelitis patients develop the disease due to diabetes. Germs can enter through wounds, especially in the feet. |
| Sickle cell disease | With this condition, the blood supply to the bones decreases, making them more susceptible to infections. |
| HIV or AIDS | The risk of any infection increases because the body's immune system is weakened. |
| Rheumatoid arthritis | This is also a disease related to the immune system, so the risk is high. |
| Injecting drugs | Using unclean injection needles can cause germs to enter the bloodstream directly. |
| Hemodialysis due to kidney disease | Things like frequent cannulations increase the risk of infection. |
| Poor blood supply | When bones do not have adequate blood flow, their ability to fight infections decreases. |
Does this affect children and adults the same way?
No. There is a clear difference in how this disease affects children and adults.
How children grow up
Children usually develop a type called ``Acute Osteomyelitis''. This means that the disease starts suddenly and symptoms appear quickly . The good news is that this condition is treatable and rarely becomes chronic. It most commonly affects the long bones of children's arms and legs.
How to become an adult
In adults, this disease can develop as `acute` (suddenly) or `chronic` (long-term). Chronic means that the condition recurs and persists for a long time despite treatment. This chronic condition is especially likely to occur in adults with diseases such as diabetes and HIV. It most commonly affects the vertebrae and pelvis of adults. It can also develop in the bones of the feet in people with diabetes.
What are the symptoms of Osteomyelitis?
The symptoms of both `Acute` and `Chronic` types are very similar. They can appear quickly, usually within 7 to 10 days.
- Fever , fatigue, and body discomfort
- Nausea
- Severe pain and tenderness at the site of infection
- The area becomes red, swollen, and feels warm to the touch.
- If a joint is infected, it may not be able to bend or straighten properly (lost range of motion).
Especially remember, if this infection affects the vertebrae of the spine, it can cause unbearable back pain . This pain can be especially severe at night.
How does the doctor diagnose and treat this?
It can sometimes be difficult to diagnose this condition because the symptoms can be similar to other conditions, so your doctor may need to run several tests.
- Blood tests: Check for infection in the body.
- X-ray, MRI, and Bone Scan: These scans help to see the condition of the bone. An MRI can often give a clear picture.
- Bone Biopsy: This is the most important test to confirm the exact cause of the disease. Here, a very small piece of the infected bone is taken and sent to a laboratory to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection. Once the bacteria is identified, the appropriate antibiotic can be given.
The main goal of treatment is to control the infection and minimize damage to the bone.
1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are often given intravenously (IV) for several weeks. After that, they are continued as pills for a longer period of time. It is important to take the medication for the full duration prescribed by your doctor.
2. Surgery: If the infection is very severe or chronic, surgery may be required to remove the infected bone and tissue. This is done to stop the infection from spreading further. If not done, the condition may become so severe that a limb or arm may need to be amputated.
How can we protect ourselves from this terrible situation?
The simplest and best thing is cleanliness .
- If you or your child gets a wound, especially a deep one, wash it thoroughly under running water for at least 5 minutes . Then cover it with a clean sterile bandage.
- If you have diabetes , take special care of your feet . Check your feet regularly for any cuts, scrapes, or redness. If you notice any changes, see your doctor immediately.
Remember, the sooner this disease is recognized and treated, the better. If treatment is started early, it can be prevented from becoming a chronic condition.
Take-Home Message
- Osteomyelitis is a serious infection caused by bacteria entering the bone.
- Diabetes, immunodeficiency, severe injuries, and bone surgery are major risk factors for this.
- The main symptoms are sudden fever, malaise, and pain, swelling, and redness in a bone area.
- Treatment involves taking antibiotics for several weeks, and sometimes surgery may be necessary.
- Clean wounds thoroughly. People with diabetes, especially those with diabetes, should always pay attention to their feet. If you have any doubts, see a doctor immediately.
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