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Septic Arthritis and Bursitis, Sports Medicine

Kevin B. Gebke, MD and Matthew Rachwalski, DO Reviewed 04/2019
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Infection of articular joint(s) or bursae with a bacterial, mycobacterial, spirochetal, fungal, or viral source

  • Usually acute, but bursitis can be chronic

  • May be an indication of syste...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Rapid onset (1 to 2 wk) in septic arthritis; may have rapid or insidious onset with septic bursitis

  • Single joint involvement in >85% of patients

  • Most commonly involves knee (50%) ...

TREATMENT

  • Septic bursitis:

    • Most common organisms include Staphylococcus aureus (80%), β-hemolytic Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis3,6[B].

    • With repetitive microtrauma and hematogenous seedin...

ONGOING CARE

  • Complete resolution and restoration of joint function is the goal.

  • Possible adverse outcomes include death, impaired joint function (e.g., decreased motion, fusion, dislocation), septic ne...

REFERENCES

1
Khodaee M. Common superficial bursitis. Am Fam Physician.  2017;95(4):224–231.
2
Horowitz DL, Katzap E, Horowitz S, et al. Approach to septic arthritis. Am Fam Physician.  2011;84(...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Septic arthritis is considered an emergency, and prompt drainage and administration of IV antibiotics can prevent joint damage.

  • Knee joint is most common, although axial joints more com...

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