The story of Javier AcostaA Colombian man who requested euthanasia due to the unbearable pain caused by an osteomyelitis infection, raised complex questions such as the right to a dignified death and the agony of living with chronic painOsteomyelitis, while not as well known as other diseases, is a devastating condition that can cause extreme suffering, and Acosta’s case revealed the profound distress the disease can inflict on those who suffer from it.
Osteomyelitis is a bone infection caused by bacteria or fungi that infiltrate the boneusually by blood, open wounds or surgical procedures. The most common bacteria associated with this infection are Staphylococcus aureus and, to a lesser extent, Escherichia coli. The infection can cause inflammation, severe pain, and in severe cases, destruction of the bone tissue.
The case of Javier Acosta, of pain, despair and the right to die with dignity, is an extreme situation that responds to the need for investment and research and the need for support for these patients. And this Colombian, who suffered from chronic osteomyelitis, decided to request euthanasia due to the incessant and unbearable pain that the disease caused him. After multiple treatments, surgical procedures and long periods of hospitalizationAcosta found that his quality of life had deteriorated irreversibly. Despite medical efforts, persistent pain and the lack of effective options led him to opt for a dignified death.
In Colombia, Euthanasia has been legal since 1997and the right to a dignified death has been extended to people with chronic or degenerative diseases that cause intolerable suffering. The case of Javier Acosta highlights the need to address not only the physical aspects of diseases, but also their psychological and emotional impact on patients.
Also a reminder of the havoc a seemingly simple infection can wreakbut also a call for improved support and empathy for people living with debilitating chronic illnesses. Society and the health system must work together to ensure that all patients receive the respect and dignity they deserve in their struggle with pain and illness.
Causes and forms of contagion
Osteomyelitis can develop in several ways:
Hematogenous infection:The bacteria or fungus can travel to the bone through the bloodstream from an infection elsewhere in the body, such as a skin or urinary tract infection. This type is more common in children and people with weakened immune systems.
Contiguous infection: This occurs when an infection from surrounding tissues, such as skin or muscle, spreads to the bones. It is common in adults, especially after orthopedic surgery or in people with open, exposed wounds.
Direct infection: It can be caused by the direct introduction of microorganisms into the bone, as in the case of open fractures or surgery. It is particularly common in people who have suffered severe trauma or in those who have had surgical implants.
Symptoms and diagnosis
Symptoms of osteomyelitis vary depending on whether or not the infection is acute or chronic. In acute cases, Symptoms can appear quickly and include:
- Severe, persistent pain in the affected area.
- Swelling, redness and warmth in the infected area.
- Fever and chills.
- Fatigue and general malaise.
- In chronic osteomyelitis, symptoms may be more subtle and appear intermittently. In addition to pain and swelling, patients may experience:
- Ulcers or abscesses on the skin that drain pus.
- Recurrent infections that do not respond to antibiotic treatment
- Diagnosis is based on a combination of blood tests, cultures to identify the specific microorganism, imaging tests such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, and, in some cases, a biopsy of the affected bone.
Treatment of osteomyelitis
Treatment of osteomyelitis is complex and may require a multidisciplinary approach. Includes:
Antibiotics or antifungals: administered intravenously and, in some cases, for a long period of time (weeks or even months). The choice of drug depends on the type of microorganism causing the infection.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to drain abscesses, remove dead or infected bone tissue, and stabilize fractures. In extreme situations, such as when the infection does not respond to other treatments and threatens the patient’s life, amputation may be considered.
Adjuvant therapies: such as hyperbaric oxygen, which can improve circulation and help affected bones heal.
Living with chronic osteomyelitis can be devastating. Constant pain and prolonged antibiotic treatment strong can cause serious side effects, such as gastrointestinal problems, extreme fatigue, and organ damage. The need for multiple surgeries and constant uncertainty on the success of treatment can also cause anxiety and depression. The inability to perform daily activities and dependence on ongoing medical care profoundly affect quality of life.
Prevention Treatment of osteomyelitis focuses on hygiene and proper wound care to prevent infection. In the case of orthopedic surgeries, It is crucial to follow strict sterile protocols. For those already affected, pain management is a vital part of treatment. This may include painkillers, physical therapies to improve mobility, and psychological support to help patients cope with the emotional impact of the disease.
