Impact of hospitalizations for osteomyelitis: An assessment of prevalence and severity

Abstract

Osteomyelitis is an inflammatory and infectious condition that affects the bone, resulting in significant damage and, in severe cases, even life-threatening complications. This bone infection can be caused by a variety of infectious agents and can arise in different ways, from sudden acute infections to persistent chronic infections. The study of the incidence of osteomyelitis is extremely important due to its clinical and epidemiological implications. Understanding the incidence of osteomyelitis in different populations and geographic regions can contribute to the development of targeted public health policies and more assertive prevention programs. Therefore, the objective of this work was to outline an epidemiological overview of hospitalizations caused by osteomyelitis in Brazil, from 2019 to 2023. This is an ecological time series study, which used data from the Hospital Information System (SIH) of the DATASUS. This comprehensive source offers a detailed overview of hospital admissions caused by osteomyelitis in Brazil. We describe a subtle 4% reduction in hospital admissions for osteomyelitis in Brazil, with the Southeast accounting for the majority of admissions. Furthermore, it was possible to identify that men, mixed race, aged between 40 and 49 years old were the most affected and that the majority of hospitalizations were urgent. A subtle reduction in hospitalizations for osteomyelitis is an encouraging indicator in a public health context, suggesting progress in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this debilitating condition. To maintain and expand this positive trend, it is critical to continue investing in health education, clinical research, and health infrastructure, ensuring that all individuals have equitable access to prevention and treatment services.