#Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is an inflammation or infection of the bone and bone marrow, typically caused by bacteria, but sometimes by fungi. It can occur acutely, often following an injury or surgery, or become chronic. Infection can reach the bone through the bloodstream (hematogenous spread), direct contamination from an open wound, or spread from adjacent infected tissue. Symptoms include localized pain, fever, swelling, and redness over the affected area. Diagnosis involves imaging studies and cultures, with treatment requiring prolonged courses of antibiotics, and often surgical debridement of infected bone.