February 27, 2010
Osteomyelitis?
Category: Osteomyelitis
I’m 17 and have what we believe to be osteomyelitis. Since I’m not really a kid and not really an adult could it explain both the pain in my tibia and clavicle (as in kids)-started about a year ago and the pain in my hips and spine (as in adults)-started a few months ago? Or is from two seperate diseases? But I guess my main question is when does the pattern of blood flow changes? Because that is a factor of where the disease effects the body.
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February 27th, 2010 at 7:18 pm
Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone. It can arise either from direct spread (like an abscess or infected wound) or it can spread through the bloodstream.
You can potentially get an infection of any bone in your body. While some places are more likely than others, the location of the pain can’t really prove or disprove osteomyelitis. While there are some differences in the most common sites of infection between children and adults, you can’t assume that because a particular place hurts that it must be osteomyelitis.
Depending on the situation, an MRI or a bone biopsy with culture can be used to make the diagnosis. In some circumstances plain films can be helpful as well. Generally speaking, it’s also important to identify the species and antibiotic susceptibilities prior to beginning treatment.
If you aren’t sure about osteomyelitis, you need to see another physician and get a second opinion. If it’s something you are particularly concerned about, you should consider seeing an infectious disease specialist.