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Septic Arthritis

Bacterial infection usually in the joint cavity is known as septic arthritis which is a most dangerous form of acute arthritis. A sterile space, the joint cavity has synovial fluid as well as cellular matter that includes white blood cells. Incidences of septic arthritis is believed to be two to ten cases per every hundred thousand people, though it is much higher in the case of rheumatoid arthritis.

Spread Hematogenously

Septic arthritis is commonly spread hematogenously with predisposing factors being intravenous drug usage, in-dwelling catheters present as well as underlying immuno-compromised states. Bacteria are carried by the bloodstream from an infectious focus or are introduced by a skin lesion that penetrates the joint.

Risk factors for septic arthritis are joint problems, rheumatoid arthritis, high infection risk, and a weak immune system. If a person suspects that he or she has one or more of these signs and symptoms, it may be indicative of septic arthritis, and it is recommended to see a doctor immediately since prompt treatment will help prevent the spreading of the infection as well as minimize damage to the affected joint.

A patient whose single joint is affected and who is febrile will be suspected of having septic arthritis, and diagnosis is by aspiration, Gram stain as well as taking culture of fluid from the joint. Also, telltale signs in laboratory testing can also help in diagnosing septic arthritis, and therapy usually consists of intravenous antibiotics, analgesia as well as washout/aspiration of the joint to dryness.

The traditional diagnosis of septic arthritis was through clinical assessment as well as prompt arthrocentesis. But, since the clinical picture is often obscured by multiple confounding factors, processes such as imaging can help confirm the diagnosis as well as direct the clinician to a previously unconsidered diagnosis. In recent times, the use of MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) has been increasing for diagnosing this condition at an early stage.

Mostly, antibiotics as well as joint drainage are used to treat septic arthritis. By identifying the bacteria causing this condition, doctors can select the most effective antibiotic to combat as well as target specific bacterium and antibiotics may be taken intravenously or orally.

Removal of the infected synovial fluid from the joint helps to remove bacteria from the joint reduces pressure on the joint as well as gives the doctor a sample for testing for bacteria as well as other organisms. Removing joint fluid is commonly performed through arthroscopic surgery.

Patients with septic arthritis can help them by taking care of themselves by eating a healthy diet full of fruits as well as vegetables. And, after taking the doctor’s permission, may engage in gentle exercise as well as take care to get enough sleep and reduce stress as well. Such measures may not cure septic arthritis, but will help in feeling better during treatment.