What are the effects of chronic Osteomyelitis on contributing to other diseases?

Question

I am looking for reference material to support that chronic Osteomyelitis can make someone more susceptable to other diseases, such as an enlarged heart. My father suffered from Osteomyelitis for over 15 years before developing an enlarged heart, which ultimately lead to his death at the age of 47. When he died the VA denied my mom widow's benefits because they said the Osteomyelitis did not contribute to his death. I am looking for information to counter the VA's stand. I have always felt that the Osteomyelitis contributed to his death even though it wasn't a direct cause. I need something to back me up so my mom can get benefits.

Answer 1

The question arises is that what's the autopsy report. However if has died of septicemia i.e. high grade fever due to chronic osteomyelitis, and the causative organism were the same as those found in the bony lesion, she is entitled to widow's benefits.
Rember that Chronic osteomylitis, is mixture of several bacteria. You can easily sue the company for multiple damages, but your lawyer should be a doctor too.
Convey my profound regards to your mother,
Dr.Qutub