Bone Infections - Osteomyelitis

How is the infection diagnosed?

Diagnosis starts with the history and physical exam. This may be all that is needed to make the diagnosis. In some cases, further tests are needed. These may include blood tests and x-rays. Many different types of x-rays may be done, including standard x-rays, an imaging test called an MRI, or other special scans. In some cases, a sample of bone or pus from deep inside a skin wound is examined. Surgery or insertion of a needle through the skin may be needed to obtain these samples.