Final answer:
The patient's symptoms indicate the possibility of infectious arthritis, which is an infection in a joint caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The elevated white blood cell count in the joint fluid confirms the presence of inflammation and infection. Treatment typically includes antibiotics or antiviral medications, and in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.
Step-by-step explanation:
The patient in question presents with an acute swollen and painful joint, with a tap revealing a white blood cell count (WBC) of greater than 50,000. This clinical picture is suggestive of an infectious arthritis.
Infectious arthritis is an infection in a joint caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. It typically presents with joint pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. The elevated WBC count in the joint fluid (tap) indicates the presence of inflammation and infection.
Treatment for infectious arthritis usually includes antibiotics or antiviral medications, depending on the underlying cause. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain or remove infected material from the joint.