What is the term for a severe infection of the bones, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus?

The term for a severe infection of the bones is osteomyelitis. This condition often arises due to bacteria, with Staphylococcus aureus being a common culprit. Osteomyelitis can occur when bacteria enter the bone tissue through various means, such as through the bloodstream, from nearby infections, or directly from open fractures.

Osteomyelitis is characterized by inflammation of the bone and surrounding marrow, which can lead to tissue necrosis and complicated healing processes. Recognizing this condition is crucial because it usually requires antibiotics or even surgical intervention to resolve the infection effectively.

Other options like osteoporosis refer to a decrease in bone density, which leads to an increased risk of fractures but is not an infection. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints and is not synonymous with bone infections. Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer and does not indicate an infectious process. Therefore, osteomyelitis is the correct term for a severe bone infection.