Septic Arthritis

Question 1

What is septic arthritis?

Answer 1

Infection within the joint capsule

Children <4 are most commonly affected

Question 2

What are common causative organisms?

Answer 2

Staph aureus= most common

N.gonorrhoea in sexually active teens
Group A strep
H.influenzae
E.coli

Question 3

What are the clinical features of SA?

Answer 3

Unilateral joint (commonly hip or knee)
Red, hot and swollen joint
Refusal to weight bear
Stiffness and reduced range of motion
Systemic signs of illness e.g. fever, malaise and sepsis

Question 4

What investigations are needed in someone presenting with SA?

Answer 4

Bloods- raised WCC, CRP and ESR
Joint aspirate- gram staining, culture and sensitivities
Obs

Question 5

What is the management of SA?

Answer 5

Empirical IV abx until cultures back
Treat for 3-6wks with abx
May need surgical debridement and drainage of joint