Expanded spectrum of organisms causing osteomyelitis after puncture wounds of the foot

Although there is a general awareness developing about the role of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in producing osteomyelitis following puncture wounds of the foot, it is not generally appreciated that other organisms may gain access to the bones of the foot following penetrating injuries. This paper addresses two additional cases of osteomyelitis produced by organisms other than Pseudomonas, and characterized by the same indolent course. It is emphasized that puncture wound osteomyelitis generally requires surgical intervention, not only for proper diagnosis, but for evacuation of the infective process.