M90.0: Tuberculosis of bone

Tuberculosis of the bone, also known as skeletal tuberculosis, is caused by the specific bacterial infection Mycobacterium tuberculosis. While being less common than pulmonary tuberculosis, this form of the disease can have serious implications. It can affect any bone in the body, but is most frequently found in the spine, causing a condition known as spinal tuberculosis or Pott's disease. The onset of bone tuberculosis is usually slow, with symptoms like persistent pain in the affected area, swelling, and a decrease in mobility becoming progressively more severe. Over time, if left untreated, the infection can lead to bone damage and deformity. As it is a form of tuberculosis, the disease is most often contracted through the airborne spread of the bacteria from a person with active tuberculosis. It's important to note that not everyone infected with the bacteria will develop this form of the disease. Factors like a weakened immune system can increase the risk of the disease progressing to the bones.