Osteomyelitis Syphilitic Diffuse

Syphilitic diffuse osteomyelitis is a chronic inflammation of bone tissue caused by syphilis. It is characterized by diffuse damage to the skeletal bones with the formation of gummous foci of decay.

The cause of the disease is Treponema pallidum, the causative agent of syphilis. Infection occurs through sexual contact. Treponemas penetrate into bone tissue hematogenously.

The pathological process begins with inflammation of the periosteum, then the cancellous bone is affected with the formation of foci of necrosis. The bone beams are destroyed, the bone marrow is replaced by granulation tissue.

Clinical manifestations: bone pain, especially at night, increased body temperature. When palpating the bones, their thickening and pain are determined. The appearance of fistulas and pathological fractures is possible.

Diagnosis is based on the detection of syphilis and X-ray data (foci of destruction in the bones).

Treatment is complex, including antibacterial therapy against syphilis, surgical treatment of purulent foci in the bones. With timely treatment, the prognosis is favorable.

Osteomyelitic processes are a complication of syphilis with numerous foci of degenerative bone and necrotic nature, resulting from blockage of small vessels in the spongy substance of the bone or in the bone marrow by metabolic products of microorganisms, tissues, and blood with a large amount of antibodies. Bone marrow lesions increase in shape and size, often merging with each other, forming connective tissue bridges. Bone tissue is gradually replaced by calcified connective tissue, and areas of bone resorption similar to osteoporosis appear in its subcortical and central parts. The bone marrow becomes saturated with calcified matter and atrophies. Large ulcerative foci with sharp contours are formed, occurring mainly in tuberculosis. A syphilitic tumor of the jaw occurs. Less common complications include meningitis, damage to the cardiovascular and nervous systems, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract. The development of osteomyelitis is promoted by alcoholism and diabetes. Treatment is long-term, including drug treatment with antibacterial drugs, surgical removal of pus, as well as physiotherapeutic procedures.