<Tr> <Th> Frequency </Th> <Td> 2.4 per 100,000 per year </Td> </Tr> <P> Osteomyelitis (OM) is an infection of bone . Symptoms may include pain in a specific bone with overlying redness, fever, and weakness . The long bones of the arms and legs are most commonly involved in children, while the feet, spine, and hips are most commonly involved in adults . </P> <P> The cause is usually a bacterial infection; rarely, a fungal infection . It may occur by spread from the blood or from surrounding tissue . Risks for developing osteomyelitis include diabetes, intravenous drug use, prior removal of the spleen, and trauma to the area . Diagnosis is typically suspected based on symptoms . This is then supported by blood tests, medical imaging, or bone biopsy . </P> <P> Treatment often involves both antimicrobials and surgery . In those with poor blood flow, amputation may be required . With treatment outcomes are often generally good when the condition has only been present a short time . About 2.4 per 100,000 people are affected a year . The young and old are more commonly affected . Males are more commonly affected than females . The condition was described at least as early as the 300s BC by Hippocrates . Before the availability of antibiotics the risk of death was significant . </P>

Most common cause of osteomyelitis in iv drug users