Septic Arthritis

Question 1

What are the risk factors for the development of septic arthritis?

Answer 1

• RA/OA/prothesis
• IVDU
• EtOH use
• Diabetes
• Recent joint surgery/trauma

Question 2

How will a septic joint appear on examination?

Answer 2

• Joint appears
  
  • Hot
  • Swollen
  • Tender
  • Restricted

Question 3

What would appropriate investighations include for a patient suspected of septic arthritis?

Answer 3

• Joint aspiration for MCS
  
  • Prosthesis - in theatre
• Blood cultures
• FBE/CRP/ESR
• Xray

Question 4

What would the principles of management be for a patient suspected of septic arthritis?

Answer 4

• Manage infection
  
  • S. aureus/strep - flucloxacillin/vancomycin if MRSA
  • N. gonorrhoea - cefoxtaxime