Osteomyelitis and Septic Arthritis

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to osteomyelitis and septic arthritis, including definitions of key terms and concepts.

Osteomyelitis

A progressive infectious process involving the destruction of bone by necrosis and new bone formation.

Acute Osteomyelitis

An early bone infection associated with edema, ischemia, and necrosis, often in children under 5 years of age.

Chronic Osteomyelitis

A prolonged infection characterized by persistent microorganisms, low-grade inflammation, and presence of necrotic bone.

Hematogenous Source

Infection that reaches bone via the bloodstream from a distant site.

Contiguous Source

Infection that extends to the bone from an adjacent local infection.

Sequestrum

Areas of dead bone resulting from local ischemia in osteomyelitis.

Staphylococcus aureus

The prominent pathogen in osteomyelitis, contributing to the majority of cases.

Risk Factors for Osteomyelitis

Includes trauma, prosthetic devices, diabetes, IV drug use, and spinal cord injury.

Clinical Manifestations of Septic Arthritis

Swelling and pain in a joint accompanied by fever, often requiring prompt medical attention.

Diagnosis of Osteomyelitis

Confirmed through radiological imaging and microbiological analysis of infected bone.

Treatment for Osteomyelitis

Involves parenteral antimicrobial therapy typically lasting 4 to 6 weeks.

Septic Arthritis

Invasion of the synovial membrane of a joint by microorganisms, typically spread hematogenously.

Synovial Fluid Analysis

A critical diagnostic tool for septic arthritis, indicating the presence of infection through elevated white blood cell counts.

Arthrocentesis

The procedure of joint drainage that helps alleviate infection and improve pain in septic arthritis.