Question

*Septic Arthritis*

*1* AKA Infective arthritis, infective spondylitis, discitis, osteomyelitis, Pott's disease.

*2* Patient presents with a *fever, chills, possible history of trauma/surgery and a warm, tender, red, and swollen joint*.

*3* Lab: *WBC count*

*4* Case management: refer to *ER for IV antibiotics*

Answer 1

Septic arthritis is an urgent condition where IV antibiotics should be promptly administered. Staphylococcus aureus is commonly responsible for the infection. Rapid treatment is critical to prevent joint damage and high mortality rates.

Step-by-step explanation:

Infectious arthritis, also known as septic arthritis, is a serious and urgent medical condition that requires immediate attention and often hospitalization for appropriate management. Once diagnosed through the aspiration and analysis of synovial fluid, it is essential that treatment with IV antibiotics is started as soon as possible to avoid permanent joint damage and potential mortality, which can be as high as 20%.

Staphylococcus aureus is the most common bacterium causing both septic arthritis and osteomyelitis. Management of this infection includes the use of oxacillin, cefazolin, third-generation cephalosporins, or other antimicrobials based on susceptibility testing.

If the pathogen is resistant, such as with CRE infections, more aggressive treatment strategies with drugs like tigecycline may be necessary. Due to the risks associated with septic arthritis, including the potential for rapidly worsening symptoms and septic shock, referral to the ER for appropriate treatment is the standard protocol.