Septic arthritis

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Septic arthritis
File:SepticArth2011 (cropped).jpg
Synonyms	Infectious arthritis, bacterial arthritis
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Joint pain, swelling, redness, fever
Complications	Joint destruction, sepsis
Onset	Rapid
Duration	Variable
Types	N/A
Causes	Bacterial infection, fungal infection, viral infection
Risks	Joint surgery, prosthetic joint, intravenous drug use, immunosuppression
Diagnosis	Joint aspiration, blood culture, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis	Gout, rheumatoid arthritis, reactive arthritis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Antibiotics, joint drainage, surgery
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depends on promptness of treatment
Frequency	2-10 per 100,000 people per year
Deaths	N/A

Septic arthritis, also known as infectious arthritis, is a form of arthritis caused by an infection in the joint. It is a serious and painful condition that can quickly lead to significant damage to the joint if left untreated.

File:BioFix Hueftspacer bei septischer Pfannenlockerung 65W - CR ap - 001.jpg

BioFix Hueftspacer bei septischer Pfannenlockerung 65W

Causes

Septic arthritis is typically caused by bacteria, but can also be caused by fungi or viruses. The most common bacteria that cause septic arthritis are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus. These bacteria can enter the joint in a number of ways, including through the bloodstream, from a nearby infection, or through a direct injury to the joint.

Symptoms

The symptoms of septic arthritis typically include severe pain in the affected joint, swelling, redness, and warmth. Other symptoms can include fever, chills, and a general feeling of being unwell. The knee is the most commonly affected joint, but septic arthritis can occur in any joint in the body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of septic arthritis involves a physical examination and various tests. These tests may include blood tests, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI, and analysis of joint fluid.

Treatment

Treatment for septic arthritis typically involves antibiotics to fight the infection, and drainage of the infected joint fluid. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove infected tissue and repair any damage to the joint.

Prognosis

With early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for septic arthritis is generally good. However, if left untreated, septic arthritis can lead to permanent joint damage and other serious complications.

See also

• Arthritis
• Infectious disease
• Joint infection

External links

• Mayo Clinic - Septic Arthritis
• WebMD - Septic Arthritis