Bone Infection

Osteomyelitis (an infection of the bone) can be caused by a variety of microbial agents (bacteria, fungus), the most common of which is staphylococcus aureus.

This serious infection can occur from a number of sources:
• It may enter bone through an injury, such as an open fracture with the bone ends piercing the skin.
• It can spread from elsewhere in the body or through the bloodstream.
• It can result from a chronic foot wound or infection, such as a diabetic ulcer.

​To diagnose the condition, your AFAS doctor will examine the area and may order blood tests and X-rays or other imaging studies. Treatment options include surgery, antibiotic therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Again, this is a serious infection. Some of the possible symptoms are:
• fever
• fatigue
• nausea
• tenderness, redness or swelling in the affected area
• loss of range of motion