Involucrum

Involucrum is a layer of new bone growth outside a sequestrum (dead bone) that occurs in the healing process of osteomyelitis, a serious bone infection. The involucrum forms after the periosteum, a membrane that covers bone, becomes elevated by the pus and separates from the infected bone.

Causes

Osteomyelitis, the infection that leads to the formation of an involucrum, can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria can reach the bone through the bloodstream or from nearby tissue. Osteomyelitis can also occur as a result of an open fracture or surgery where the bone is exposed to bacteria.

Symptoms

The symptoms of osteomyelitis and the resulting involucrum can include severe pain in the infected bone, fever and chills, swelling, redness, and warmth in the area of the infection, and a general feeling of being unwell.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of an involucrum is usually made through imaging tests such as X-ray, MRI, or CT scan. These tests can show the new bone growth around the sequestrum. In some cases, a biopsy of the bone may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and identify the bacteria causing the infection.

Treatment

Treatment for an involucrum typically involves antibiotics to treat the underlying infection. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the sequestrum and clean the area of infection. After treatment, physical therapy may be needed to improve function in the affected bone.

See also

• Osteomyelitis
• Periosteum
• Sequestrum
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Escherichia coli
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa