Osteomyelitis of the skull

Osteomyelitis of the skull is a direct infection of the bone. It can be an acute or chronic disease. It usually has an insidious initial onset. Complications can be life-threatening and even fatal. The most frequently associated organism responsible for the disease is Staphylococcus aureus. Tissue specimens must be obtained for definitive culture and sensitivity reports. It is also important that devitalized bone and sequestra be removed as part of adequate therapy. A typical presentation on skull series is a moth-eaten appearance; however, this may not be recognized radiographically for several months. The antibiotic chosen must be given in high enough doses to assure adequate serum levels to eradicate the organism responsible for causing the disease. Length of treatment depends on the clinical course and the extent of infection but may involve several months or longer. Good nursing care is essential in dealing with osteomyelitis and involves preventive as well as therapeutic management. Patient education and support are important aspects of nursing care in helping the patient cope with the disease.