Osteomyelitis

Chronic osteomyelitis is an infection in the bone, which can be an incurable problem (Figure 1). What happens when the bone gets infection (osteomyelitis)? Usually bacteria causes infection in the bone. Leukocytes are attracted to the area and secrete enzymes in attempt to kill the bacteria (Figure 2). Leukocytes are normal white blood cells that defend the body against any outside invaders. Blood flow to the area is decreased, and devitalized necrotic bone is formed called a sequestrum (Figure 3). That sequestrum is an infected dead bone resulting from osteomyelitis. It is a nidus of infection. Haversian canals surround blood vessels and nerve cells throughout the bone, and give nutrition to the bone (Figure 4). The sequestrum has no connection to the normal bone through the Haversian system, (osteon) or the connection with the healthy bone is severed. Due to the avascular nature of the sequestrum, antibiotics cannot reach the sequestrum or the bacteria. In fact, the bacteria enters the sequestrum's bone cells and hides inside them, antibiotics alone are not helpful. The involucrum is a new bone formation around the sequestrum. The body is trying to seal off the infection by forming new bone. The sequestrum will drain through the sinus (Figure 5). That draining sinus is called the cloaca. A culture of the surface of the sinus is not representative of what is deep. Multiple, deep samples are needed. Biopsy of the sinus is important in long standing cases...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news