Osteomyelitis is an inflammation of bone due to infection. The infection can be acute or chronic and is usually bacterial.

Risk factors for osteomyelitis include traumatic injury, diabetes, an impaired immune system, atherosclerosis, sickle cell anemia, bone surgery, hemodialysis and intravenous drug abuse. Signs and symptoms can include pain, swelling and fatigue.

Acute osteomyelitis is curable. In the early stages, treatment usually involves extended doses of intravenous and oral antibiotics. If the condition progresses to chronic osteomyelitis, however, it becomes extremely dangerous. Surgical removal of the infected bone or amputation of a limb may be necessary.

People help avoid osteomyelitis by practicing good hygiene and safety habits and by preventing or controlling the disorders that increase its risk.