M86: Osteomyelitis

M86.3: Chronic multifocal osteomyelitis

Chronic multifocal osteomyelitis is a rare, non-infectious, inflammatory bone disorder that typically affects children and young adults. The condition is characterized by the presence of multiple areas of inflammation in different bones. These inflamed areas can cause symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, and sometimes even fractures. Chronic multifocal osteomyelitis may also present with intermittent fever and mild to moderate weight loss. The root causes of this condition remain largely unknown but it is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic factors and an abnormal immune response. Although non-infectious, it can impersonate an infection or a tumor due to its clinical and radiologic features. Progression of the disease is unpredictable, ranging from mild, self-limiting episodes to severe, disabling conditions affecting multiple body systems.