Osteomyelitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening infection of the bone. It can be caused by bacteria entering the bone through an open wound, surgery, or infection in another part of the body spreading to the bone. Symptoms may include fever, pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the infection. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics and, in more severe cases, surgery to remove infected tissue. Research in osteomyelitis focuses on improving diagnostic techniques, developing more effective treatments, and preventing the spread of infection.