What is acute osteomyelitis, Enumerate 7 signs and symptoms of acute osteomyelitis How would you manage acute osteomyelitis, Mention three complications of acute osteomyelitis?

Acute osteomyelitis is a bacterial infection of the bone that usually occurs as a result of a bloodstream infection or direct contamination of the bone.

7 signs and symptoms of acute osteomyelitis include:
1. Severe bone pain
2. Swelling, redness, and warmth over the affected bone
3. Fever and chills
4. Fatigue and malaise
5. Limited range of motion in the affected joint
6. Irritability in children
7. Pus draining from the skin near the affected bone

Management of acute osteomyelitis typically involves a combination of antibiotics, surgical drainage of any abscesses, and supportive care such as pain management and rest. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove infected tissue or bone.

Three complications of acute osteomyelitis include:
1. Chronic osteomyelitis - the infection persists or recurs despite treatment, leading to long-term bone damage
2. Septic arthritis - infection spreads to the joint, causing inflammation and damage
3. Bone necrosis - death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply, leading to bone weakening and potential fractures.

Acute Osteomyelitis

Acute osteomyelitis is an acute bacterial infection of the bone marrow and surrounding bone tissue. It is typically caused by bacteria that spread through the bloodstream from a distant site of infection.

Signs and Symptoms of Acute Osteomyelitis:

1. Localized bone pain and tenderness
2. Swelling and erythema (redness) of the overlying skin
3. Fever
4. Chills
5. Fatigue
6. Nausea or vomiting
7. Joint pain

Management of Acute Osteomyelitis:

1. Antibiotics: Intravenous antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment. The choice of antibiotics depends on the suspected causative organism.
2. Surgical drainage: Abscesses or areas of necrotic bone may need to be surgically drained or removed.
3. Rest and immobilization: To minimize pain and prevent further spread of infection, the affected limb should be rested and immobilized.
4. Pain management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioid painkillers may be used to manage pain.

Complications of Acute Osteomyelitis:

1. Septic arthritis: Infection can spread to the adjacent joint.
2. Chronic osteomyelitis: If the infection is not treated promptly, it can become chronic and difficult to treat.
3. Bacteremia: Bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause a life-threatening infection.