osteomyelitis

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osteomyelitis (osti-oh-my-ĕ-ly-tis) n. inflammation of bone due to infection. It can cause fracture and deformity of the bone. acute o. osteomyelitis occurring when bacteria enter the bone via the bloodstream; it is more common in children. There is severe pain and redness over the involved bone, accompanied by general illness and high fever. chronic o. osteomyelitis that may develop from partially treated acute osteomyelitis or after open fractures or surgery during which the bone is contaminated.

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