By: Rani. G.S
1Assistant Professor, Dept. of Child Health Nursing, PK DAS Institute of Medical
Sciences – Hospital and Medical College, Vaniamkulam, Ottapalam, Kerala, India.
2Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrical & Gynecological Nursing, PK DAS
Institute of Medical Sciences – Hospital and Medical College, Vaniamkulam, Ottapalam, Kerala, India.
Bone mass density (BMD) plays a critical role in skeletal health, particularly in the elderly, where age-related bone loss increases susceptibility to infections such as osteomyelitis. Osteomyelitis, a severe bone infection often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, is more prevalent in older adults due to factors such as osteoporosis, impaired immune function, diabetes, and peripheral vascular disease. Reduced BMD weakens bone integrity, making it more vulnerable to fractures and microbial invasion, which can further complicate infection management. Diagnosis of osteomyelitis in elderly patients with low BMD is challenging due to overlapping symptoms, requiring advanced imaging techniques like MRI and bone scans for accurate detection. Treatment involves a combination of long-term antibiotic therapy, surgical intervention when necessary, and strategies to improve bone health, such as calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Understanding the relationship between BMD and osteomyelitis is essential for early prevention, timely diagnosis, and effective management to reduce morbidity and improve quality of life in aging populations. Osteomyelitis is a serious bone infection that poses significant challenges in elderly populations due to age-related physiological changes, comorbidities, and delayed diagnosis. This condition is commonly caused by bacterial pathogens, particularly Staphylococcus aureus, and may arise from hematogenous spread, direct inoculation, or contiguous infections. Risk factors such as diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular disease, immunosuppression, and prior orthopedic surgeries contribute to increased susceptibility in older adults. Clinical presentation is often subtle, with nonspecific symptoms such as chronic pain, fever, and localized swelling, leading to diagnostic delays. Imaging modalities, including MRI and bone scans, alongside microbiological studies, are essential for accurate diagnosis. Management involves prolonged antibiotic therapy, surgical debridement when necessary, and addressing underlying conditions to prevent recurrence. Early recognition and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial to improving outcomes and minimizing complications in elderly patients with osteomyelitis.
Keywords: Osteomyelitis, Bone marrow density, Elderly, bone infection, age-related bone loss.
Citation:
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