ABSTRACT
Infectious agents are introduced into bone by: (a) hematogenous infection from bacteremia, (b) local spread from contiguous foci such as cellulitis or infected varicella lesions, and (c) direct inoculation following trauma, invasive procedures, or surgery. The incidence of osteomyelitis is greater in males (2.5 times more often than females) and approximately 40% of cases occur in patients less than 20 years of age.
