Infectious arthritis, also known as septic arthritis, is a condition characterized by a sudden and severe infection of a joint. This type of arthritis can lead to intense pain, swelling, fever, and tissue damage, making prompt treatment essential for preventing long-term complications.
What is Infectious Arthritis?
Infectious arthritis occurs when bacteria, fungi, or viruses invade a joint, triggering inflammation. While the body’s immune system typically removes these pathogens, they can rapidly multiply in closed spaces like joints, leading to severe inflammation and tissue destruction.
Prevalence and Impact
Despite its name, infectious arthritis is not contagious. However, it can be a serious condition, with research indicating that up to one-third of individuals affected will develop severe illness, and approximately 7-15% of hospitalized patients may face mortality. The elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune systems or underlying medical conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Causes
Bacterial infection is the most common cause of septic arthritis, with Staphylococci bacteria responsible for over half of cases. Other culprits include Streptococci bacteria and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Factors such as joint surgery, skin infections, and weakened immune systems can increase the risk of infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms of infectious arthritis include severe joint pain, swelling, limited mobility, redness, fever, fatigue, and changes in appetite or mood. While the condition typically affects a single joint, it can spread and impact other joints if left untreated.
Risk Factors
Individuals with pre-existing joint conditions, recent joint surgeries, skin infections, or who engage in IV drug use are at higher risk. Additionally, those with weakened immune systems or who have experienced joint trauma are more susceptible to infection.
Treatment
Prompt treatment is crucial in managing infectious arthritis. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for bacterial infections, often administered intravenously followed by oral antibiotics. In cases of fungal or viral infections, antifungal or antiviral medications may be prescribed. Draining fluid from the affected joint and physical therapy may also be recommended to alleviate symptoms and preserve joint function.
Complications
Without early intervention, infectious arthritis can cause permanent damage to joint tissues and bones, impairing mobility, and quality of life. In severe cases, the infection may spread to surrounding tissues or lead to osteomyelitis, an infection within the bone.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing infectious arthritis involves a physical examination, medical history review, and various tests such as joint fluid analysis and imaging scans to confirm the presence of infection and assess its severity.
Infectious Arthritis vs. Reactive Arthritis
While both conditions share similar symptoms, infectious arthritis results from an active joint infection, whereas reactive arthritis stems from a recent infection elsewhere in the body, triggering joint inflammation.
Infectious arthritis demands prompt attention and appropriate treatment to prevent long-term complications. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and optimal outcomes. If you suspect you may have infectious arthritis, seek medical assistance promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
