Bone and joint infections, often known as musculoskeletal infections, are a class of dangerous medical disorders that affect the human body's bones, joints, and surrounding tissues. These infections can be caused by a variety of microorganisms, the most frequent of which being bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common bacterial agent responsible for these infections, but Streptococcus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa can also be involved. Fungal infections, such as those caused by Candida or Aspergillus, may lead to bone and joint infections in some situations, especially in those with weaker immune systems. Infections of the bones and joints usually develop through hematogenous spread or direct injection. Bacteria enter the bloodstream from another site of infection, such as a skin wound or urinary tract infection, then migrate to the bones and joints via hematogenous dissemination. In contrast, direct inoculation includes bacteria entering the body by a severe injury, surgery, or the insertion of foreign materials such as prosthetic joints or pins. Localized pain, swelling, warmth, and redness surrounding the affected area are frequent symptoms of bone and joint infections. Fever, chills, and a decreased range of motion in the affected joint are also possible symptoms. Prompt identification and treatment are critical to preventing the infection from spreading and causing bone deterioration, as well as potentially leading to systemic problems. Clinical evaluation, imaging investigations such as X-rays or MRI scans, and laboratory testing such as blood cultures and joint fluid analyses are frequently used to diagnose bone and joint infections. When an infection is diagnosed, therapy usually consists of a course of medicines customized to the specific bacteria causing the infection. Surgery may be required in extreme cases or when there is extensive tissue damage to drain abscesses, remove diseased tissues, or restore damaged joints. Despite improvements in medical knowledge, bone and joint infections continue to be difficult to treat because to bacteria's ability to avoid the immune system and develop biofilms that protect them from antibiotics. Furthermore, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant forms of bacteria has complicated the treatment of many diseases. Preventive interventions, such as adequate wound care, prophylactic antibiotics for high-risk procedures, and diligent management of underlying medical disorders, are therefore critical in lowering the risk of bone and joint infections. To achieve the best outcomes for patients with these complex and possibly fatal diseases, early detection and a multidisciplinary strategy involving infectious disease specialists, orthopedic surgeons, and other healthcare providers are required.
