Bone Infections
Educational information. Individual clinical review of this presentation by Dr. Ehsan is not yet documented. It does not replace personal medical evaluation.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. Read the original source
MedlinePlus data edition September 26, 2026. Imported September 27, 2026. These dates do not indicate a new clinical review of the article.
Like other parts of the body, bones can get infected. The infections are usually bacterial, but can also be fungal. They may spread to the bone from nearby skin or muscles, or from another part of the body through the bloodstream. People who are at risk for bone infections include those with diabetes, poor circulation, or recent injury to the bone. You may also be at risk if you are having hemodialysis.
Symptoms of bone infections include:
- Pain in the infected area
- Chills and fever
- Swelling, warmth, and redness
A blood test or imaging test such as an x-ray can tell if you have a bone infection. Treatment includes antibiotics and often surgery.
Symptoms, tests and care options
Further reading selected by MedlinePlus. Links open the original organizations’ websites.
- Bone Scan · Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
- Bone X-Ray · Radiological Society of North America
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy · Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
- Musculoskeletal MRI · Radiological Society of North America
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For a life-threatening emergency, call 911 in the U.S. or your local emergency number.
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