Final answer:
Osteomyelitis is an inflammation of bone caused by infections that can spread to joints, often leading to infectious arthritis. It is primarily caused by Staphylococcus aureus, with diagnosis and treatment involving a mix of imaging, cultures, and often antibiotics or surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Osteomyelitis occurs when bacteria spreads to joint tissue through the bloodstream, which can destroy the bone near the joint. This condition is an inflammation of bone tissues commonly caused by infections. In adults, it is often due to direct access from trauma or surgery, while in children, the bacteria typically spread from other infections in the bloodstream, affecting the bones' extensive vascularization. Symptoms include fever, pain, and swelling, and it can lead to infectious arthritis if it spreads to joints. Diagnosis involves radiography, imaging, and bacterial cultures, and treatment includes antibiotics, with nafcillin, oxacillin, or cephalosporin for acute osteomyelitis, and ampicillin, piperacillin/tazobactam, or vancomycin for chronic cases. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
The most common bacterium causing both septic arthritis and osteomyelitis is Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). It can enter the bloodstream through various means, including dental procedures, wounds, or contaminated catheters, leading to serious conditions such as septic arthritis when it affects the joints. The condition is also characterized by autoantibodies and immune responses contributing to joint and bone damage.