Animal Models of Osteomyelitis

Abstract

Clinical studies of osteomyelitis are difficult because of the multiple variables found in this disease. Reproducible animal models in rabbits, rats, and dogs have been introduced and have been useful. Each animal model has certain advantages and limitations, and the ideal model is not yet available. However, the models have provided us with a clearer understanding of the disease and its treatment. Clinical research into osteomyelitis is difficult because of the multiple variables involved in the disease process and because of the difficulty of standardizing treatment protocols. To perform controlled experiments in the field of osteomyelitis, it is clear that reliable animal models are needed. Most studies have been performed with S aureus (the major pathogen isolated from patients with osteomyelitis), but other organisms have also been tested more recently.