Acute bacterial

defining characteristics

Swollen, hot, monoarticular arthritis w/ passive motion; less uncommon – fever/chills

disease development

Generally hematogeous spread of bacteria or possible iatrogenic spread (joint injections for RA/OA)

potential causes

S. aureus Streptococci GN rods

epidemiology

risk factors

Recent trauma (animal/ human bites)
Immunocompromised RA/gout/sickle cell
IVDU

labimaging

Tap joint? Elevated WBC
Gram stain & cx

conventional treatment

Joint drainage (serial taps, open procedure)
Systemic Abs 2-4wks

complications

prevention

protocols