Infectious Arthritis

Infectious arthritis, also known as septic arthritis, is a medical condition characterized by joint inflammation caused by an infection. This condition can be caused by various microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, which enter the joint space and trigger an inflammatory response.

Causes

The most common causes of infectious arthritis include:

• Bacterial infections: Such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
• Viral infections: Such as hepatitis B and C, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Fungal infections: Such as Candida albicans, which can occur in people with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms

The symptoms of infectious arthritis may include:

• Severe joint pain and swelling
• Redness and warmth around the affected joint
• Limited range of motion in the affected joint
• Fever and chills
• Swollen lymph nodes near the affected joint

Risk Factors

Certain individuals are at a higher risk of developing infectious arthritis, including:

• People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications.
• Individuals with pre-existing joint conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
• People who have recently undergone joint surgery or injection therapy.
• Intravenous drug users.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of infectious arthritis is typically made through a combination of:

• Physical examination and medical history.
• Joint aspiration, which involves removing fluid from the affected joint for laboratory analysis.
• Imaging studies, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
• Laboratory tests, including blood cultures and joint fluid cultures.

Treatment

The treatment of infectious arthritis typically involves:

• Antibiotic therapy, which may be administered intravenously or orally, depending on the severity of the infection.
• Drainage of the infected joint fluid, either through needle aspiration or surgical drainage.
• Pain management, using medications such as analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents.
• Supportive care, including rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) of the affected joint.

Complications

If left untreated or inadequately treated, infectious arthritis can lead to serious complications, including:

• Joint destruction and permanent damage.
• Spread of the infection to other parts of the body, such as the bloodstream or other joints.
• Septic shock, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the infection triggers a severe inflammatory response.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of developing infectious arthritis, it is essential to:

• Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing and proper wound care.
• Avoid sharing needles or other equipment that can spread infections.
• Get vaccinated against certain infections, such as hepatitis B and pneumococcal disease.
• Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms of infectious arthritis occur.