Treatment of infectious arthritis and osteomyelitis.

Infectious arthritis and osteomyelitis are commonly encountered diseases of the skeletal system that can result in premature loss of an affected animal from the herd. Selection of the best possible treatment approach for an individual animal requires a solid understanding of the pathophysiologic processes involved in the infection of bone or joint; recognition of the unique aspects of the anatomy, physiology, behavior, management, and economics of the species involved; and a broad grasp of the availability and role of various therapeutic options. By recognizing the importance of all three of these areas, a clinician not only will be able to make realistic and effective judgments about care of commonly encountered cases today but also will have a sufficient basis for rational variations in therapy as pharmacologic options expand and environmental or economic pressures change.