Contents
Septic Arthritis: What You Need to Know About This Joint Infection
Published: May 06, 2024
Septic arthritis is a serious joint infection often caused by bacteria that can lead to severe joint damage if not treated promptly. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, and treatments of septic arthritis, making it easy to understand for everyone.
What Causes Septic Arthritis?
Septic arthritis usually happens when bacteria enter the joint, often through the bloodstream, a direct injury, or an infection nearby. The most common bacteria responsible is Staphylococcus aureus. It can also be caused by other microorganisms in certain situations, like in people with weakened immune systems or those who inject drugs.
Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
If you experience a hot, swollen, and painful joint, especially in the knee, it might be septic arthritis. Other common signs include fever, redness, and limited movement of the joint. These symptoms can develop quickly, so it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Diagnosing the Condition
Doctors diagnose septic arthritis by analyzing joint fluid obtained through aspiration. This fluid is checked for bacteria, white blood cell count, and crystals to confirm the infection. Blood tests and imaging like X-rays or MRIs may also be used to support the diagnosis.
Treatment and Recovery
Treatment involves draining the infected joint fluid and administering antibiotics to fight the infection. In some cases, surgery might be necessary to clean the joint. Recovery can take several weeks, and early treatment is crucial for a good outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a joint infection usually caused by bacteria.
Bacteria enter the joint via the bloodstream, injury, or nearby infection.
Symptoms include a hot, swollen joint, fever, and pain.
Yes, with joint drainage and antibiotics.
Yes, it can damage joints if not treated promptly.
Key Takeaways
Septic arthritis can be a serious condition, but with timely diagnosis and treatment, recovery is possible.
References
- Nair R, Schweizer ML, Singh N. Septic Arthritis and Prosthetic Joint Infections in Older Adults. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2017; 31:715.
- Singh JA, Yu S. Septic Arthritis in Emergency Departments in the US: A National Study of Health Care Utilization and Time Trends. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2018; 70:320.
- Margaretten ME, Kohlwes J, Moore D, Bent S. Does this adult patient have septic arthritis? JAMA 2007; 297:1478.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?