periostitis /per′i·ostī″tis/ [Gk, peri + osteon, bone, itis] , inflammation of the periosteum. The condition is caused by chronic or acute infection or trauma and is characterized by tenderness and swelling of the affected bone, pain, fever, and chills. In severe cases blood or an albuminous serous exudate forms under the membrane. In syphilitic infections periostitis may occur as an early symptom.
