Infectious Arthritis

Abstract

Several types of viral, bacterial and fungal infection may result in arthritis. Since this chapter concerns principally those types of infection in which the offending organism can be detected within the synovial cavity, viral arthritis has not been reviewed although the common causes are shown in Table 8.1. Infectious arthritis may occur de novo, or complicate either an established arthritis or a major (joint replacement) or minor (joint aspiration) surgical procedure. Joint sepsis is a rheumatologic emergency and demands urgent attention, skilled management and specific therapy. Significant morbidity and mortality are associated with delayed, inappropriate and suboptimal therapy.