In adults, the vertebrae and the pelvis are most commonly affected. Bacteria or fungus may be responsible for the infection. Pus is produced within the bone, which may result in a bone abscess . The abscess then deprives the bone of its blood supply. Chronic osteomyelitis results when bone tissue dies as a result of the lost blood supply.
Chronic infection can persist intermittently for years.
Risk factors are recent trauma, diabetes , hemodialysis patients, and IV drug abuse . The incidence is 2 out of 10,000 people. A physical examination shows bone tenderness, and possibly swelling and redness. A CBC shows elevated white blood cell count . The ESR is elevated.