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Septic Arthritis, Pediatric

Angela Y. Choe, MD and Joanna E. Thomson, MD, MPH Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Microbiologic infection and inflammation of the usually sterile joint space 

EPIDEMIOLOGY

  • Most common age: toddler and school age (2 to 6 years)

  • Predominant sex: male (2:1 female)

  • Most c...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Systemic symptoms:

    • Fever (occurs within the first few days of illness in 75% of patients)

    • Malaise

    • Poor appetite

  • Joint symptoms:

    • Pain: worsening, does not wax and wane

    • Limp

    • Inability to bear ...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Orthopedic emergency

  • Antibiotic administration

  • Immobilization of extremity

  • Pain management

MEDICATION

  • Should be initiated immediately after blood and fluid cultures obtained

  • Target...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

Patient Monitoring

  • Follow-up with orthopedic surgery

  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation services may be useful.

  • When to expect improvement:

    • Symptoms typically improv...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Farrow L. A systemic review and meta-analysis regarding the use of corticosteroids in septic arthritis. BMC Musculoskelet Disord.  2015;16:241. [View Abstract on OvidInsights]

  • K...

CODES

ICD9

  • 711.00 Pyogenic arthritis, site unspecified

  • 711.05 Pyogenic arthritis, pelvic region and thigh

  • 711.06 Pyogenic arthritis, lower leg

  • 711.07 Pyogenic arthritis, ankle and foot

  • 041.00 Streptococcus...

FAQ

  • Q: What is the optimal management of the child with suspected septic arthritis of the hip?

  • A: Aspiration of the hip joint is indicated. If purulent fluid is found or analysis of the fluid is suspic...

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