Polyarticular septic arthritis

Nontyphoidal salmonella septic arthritis in A patient with systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report

We report a case of septic arthritis in a 43-year-old female patient. Despite initial treatment with ceftriaxone for Nontyphoidal Salmonella based on blood and joint fluid culture results, the shoulder joint pain worsened. Suspected systemic lupus erythematosus associated synovitis did not respond to immunosuppressive therapy including methylprednisolone, hydroxychloroquine and methotrexate. Subsequent radiograph revealed a shoulder joint abscess, leading to arthroscopic joint debridement. Ceftriaxone was administered post-operatively until analgesic efficacy was attained. This case highlights the significance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for nontyphoidal Salmonella septic arthritis.

Microbiological Profile and Clinical Features of Septic Arthritis of the Shoulder: A 10-Year Cohort Single-Centre Study

Introduction  Septic arthritis (SA) constitutes a pressing orthopedic emergency characterized by acute, non-traumatic joint pain. Timely diagnosis and intervention are imperative to avert complications such as chondrolysis and systemic sepsis. The etiology is predominantly hematogenous, necessitating an integrated approach involving surgical and microbiological modalities. Shoulder aspiration and microbiological analysis play pivotal roles in guiding treatment, especially when positive findings prompt more aggressive therapeutic strategies. This study aims to elucidate the nuanced clinical and epidemiological characteristics of septic arthritis in both native and prosthetic joints within a singular institutional cohort over a decade. Methods  This retrospective case series analysis spanned a 10-year period, focusing on non-prosthetic shoulder joints from January 2012 to July 2021. In this timeframe, only 183 aspirations were performed and sent to the microbiology department for analysis, including cultures, microscopy, and antibiotic sensitivity tests for positive cultures. The study delved into the microbiological profile of infections, encompassing gram stain, culture positivity rates, identification of microorganisms, and antibiotic susceptibility patterns. Additionally, the incidence of primary joint infections with resistant strains, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), was scrutinized. Statistical analysis utilized the SPSS program version 20.0 (IBM Inc., Armonk, New York), with a significance level set at 5%. The project, registered with the trust's clinical audit department (Reg #5372), adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki and good clinical practice guidelines. Data collection involved extracting non-identifiable patient modifiers from the laboratory database bank into Excel spreadsheets. Results  The study included 183 patients, with 108 (59%) females and 75 (41%) males. The average age was 76.2±16.5 years. Among them, 138 (75.4%) reported pain, and 15 (8.2%) had a body temperature over 37.8°C. Lab results showed a mean white blood cell count of 11.6±4.5 and an average C-reactive protein level of 121.7±102.1. Leucocytosis (>11,000 WBC) was seen in 82 (44.8%) cases. Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP; >10 mg/dl) was found in 136 (74.3%) patients. Synovial fluid analysis revealed no crystals in 91.3% of cases. Microbial resistance analysis showed 19 strains resistant to co-trimoxazole and 11 to erythromycin. Among co-trimoxazole-resistant strains, 73.7% were Staphylococcus aureus, a statistically significant association (p<0.001). Conclusion The evolving sensitivity patterns of microbes in septic arthritis underscore the necessity to reassess empirical antibiotic therapy. Subsequent joint damage resulting from infection can result in substantial disability.

Mid- to Long-Term Survival of Geriatric Patients with Primary Septic Arthritis of the Shoulder: A Retrospective Study over a Period of 20 Years

Septic arthritis of the shoulder is an urgent medical emergency that often occurs in elderly patients and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Retrospectively, 56 patients aged ≥60 years, treated for primary septic monoarthritis of the shoulder at a maximum care hospital between 1 July 2001, and 30 July 2022, were included in this study. The primary aim of the study was analyzing survival rates and different bacteria in these patients. For statistical analysis, Kaplan-Meier curves were used for survival probability and the log-rank test was used to compare a survival probability of 5 years. The mean patient age was 78.7 years and a mean follow-up time of 3011.8 days. The mean survival of the entire study population was 920.3 days or 2.5 years. Significantly impaired 5-year survival was found only with increasing age and higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status (PS) classification scores. Eight different types of bacteria were detected in the synovial fluid cultures. A total of 42 of 48 overall pathogens was Gram-positive and 6 were Gram-negative bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus was identified as the most frequent variant. We conclude that the mean survival is significantly shortened within the first 5 years with increasing age and ASA PS classification.

Infectious mimics of rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can have various infectious mimics. As immunosuppressive agents used in treatment can aggravate the underlying infections, correct diagnosis of RA and ruling out infections is important. Numerous viral infections (Parvovirus B19, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Chikungunya and other alphaviruses, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and various other viruses), mycobacterial infections (Poncet's disease, tubercular septic arthritis, and leprosy), bacterial arthritis, brucellosis and Lyme disease are among common infections that mimic RA. Widespread travel and tourism, especially to exotic areas, high risk sexual behavior and widespread use of immunosuppressive and chemotherapeutic agents has led to numerous outbreaks of infections in areas where these infections were never reported before. Hence, rheumatologists all over the world should be familiar with musculoskeletal manifestations of infections. History of travel, comorbid fever, skin rash, genital ulcers, urethral discharge, the consumption of unpasteurized milk, lymphadenopathy, tenosynovitis, low platelet count, and positive Mantoux test can offer potential diagnostic clues. Serological testing, cultures, specific radiological signs and deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) amplification techniques often aid in diagnosis. Treatment mainly consists of antimicrobial agents, analgesics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, immunosuppressive agents including steroids and disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are needed occasionally in different refractory and prolonged illnesses. Most of the times, episodes of arthritis are self-limiting and respond to treatment of underlying cause. However, few infections like Chikungunya and Lyme's disease can lead to chronic arthritis as well.

Valvular and infection-associated risk factors as criteria to guide the use of echocardiography in patients with native joint infections

BACKGROUND

Native joint and bone infections (NJBI) are associated with infective endocarditis (IE) in 15% of cases. There are no studies analyzing the use of cardiac imaging in cases of NJBI. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with echocardiography suggestive of IE in patients with NJBI.

METHODS

This medical records review was conducted in patients hospitalized for NJBI between 2007 and 2017 in Rheumatology and Infectious Diseases departments of 2 university hospitals. Patients included had a microbiologically proven NJBI during their hospitalization.

RESULTS

In this cohort of 546 patients, median age 66 years, echocardiography was suggestive of IE in 66 (12%). In multivariate analysis, factors associated with echocardiography suggestive of IE were 2 or more positive blood cultures (OR 11.55 (CI95% 3.24-74.20)), cardiac conditions with a high risk of IE (OR 7.34 (CI95% 2.95-18.61)), unknown heart murmur (OR 4.59 (CI95% 1.79-11.74)), multifocal infection (OR 2.26 (CI95% 1.21-4.23)) and an infection due to S. bovis (OR 3.52 (CI95% 1.26-9.79)). The factor associated with the absence of an echocardiography evocative of IE was infection due to unconventional bacteria for IE (OR 0.13 (CI95% 0.01-0.76)). According to the factors associated with echocardiography evocative of IE, we propose the Normandy score based on three kinds of data: cardiac condition, bacterial strain and NJBI mechanism. Echocardiography should be realized when this score, whose negative predictive value is 100% CI95% (98-100%) for prescription of echocardiography, is more than zero.

CONCLUSIONS

A score based on valvular condition, bacterial strain and NJBI mechanism could guide clinicians in prescribing echocardiography during NJBI with an excellent negative predictive value.

Approach to a patient with monoarticular disease

PURPOSE

To reassess the diagnostic approach to a patient with a monoarticular disease in light of the up-to-date medical literature and to examine the practical utility of traditional and newer imaging tools in the setting of monoarthritis.

RESULTS

The monoarticular disease can represent a medical emergency on the one hand and be a diagnostic conundrum on the other. The management rules of patients with monoarthritis have been established long ago, but various pitfalls still lead physicians off the right diagnosis at times. Septic, pseudoseptic arthritis and hemarthrosis are the most common diagnoses made in patients with an acute presentation, and a decision not to perform a diagnostic arthrocentesis is the most prevalent cause of misdiagnosis in this setting. Many rheumatic and infectious diseases can present with more indolent monoarthritis; careful history and physical examination frequently provide clues to the straightforward diagnosis in some cases, but the extensive investigation is needed in others. Imaging methods become indispensable in individuals with the non-inflammatory monoarticular disease, with magnetic resonance imaging being the gold standard for diagnosing pigmented villonodular synovitis, lipoma arborescence, avascular necrosis, or neuropathic arthropathy.

CONCLUSIONS

A great variety of medical disorders can present as a monoarticular disease. The disease presentation dictates different diagnostic behavior, while knowing the available imaging methods' diagnostic potential should further shorten the diagnostic process.

Ankle arthritis - an important signpost in rheumatologic practice

Ankle arthritis is a useful clinical signpost to differential diagnosis in rheumatic disease. Biomechanical features and differences in cartilage physiology compared with the knee may confer protection of the ankle joint from factors predisposing to certain arthritides. The prevalence of ankle OA is low, and usually secondary to trauma. Primary OA of the ankle should be investigated for underlying causes, especially haemochromatosis. New presentations of inflammatory mono/oligo arthritis involving the ankle are more likely due to undifferentiated arthritis or spondyloarthritis than RA, and gout over CPPD. The ankle is often involved in bacterial and viral causes of septic arthritis, especially bacterial, chikungunya and HIV infection, but rarely tuberculosis. Periarticular hind foot swelling can be confused with ankle arthritis, exemplified by Lofgren’s syndrome and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy where swelling is due to subcutaneous oedema and osteitis respectively, and the ankle joint is rarely involved.

A case of enteropathic arthritis complicated by superimposed bilateral septic arthritis of the hips

Polyarticular septic arthritis is an underappreciated clinical entity. Pre-existing joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have been shown to be risk factors for septic arthritis. However, there is a paucity of data in the literature regarding the risk of septic arthritis in those patients with enteropathic arthritis. Here, we describe the case of a 47-year-old female with a background history of ulcerative colitis who presented with difficulty mobilising and pain in the hips associated with lethargy, fever and a significant inflammatory response. After an investigative process, she was newly diagnosed with enteropathic arthritis, complicated at presentation, by bilateral septic arthritis of the hips, based on progressive radiological destruction and a joint aspirate that grew Staphylococcus aureus. After treatment with antibiotics and steroids, her pain and mobility significantly improved, and she was discharged with a plan for an elective hip replacement and to commence disease-modifying therapy with sulfasalazine. This case reminds us that we must have a high index of suspicion to diagnose septic arthritis in those who present feverish and unwell with joint pain, even in those who present with multiple joint involvement. Furthermore, it describes a rare occurrence of bilateral septic arthritis of the hips occurring in a patient with enteropathic arthritis, which unlike osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, is not well described in the literature as a risk factor for septic arthritis.

Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C causing primary polyarthritis in an octogenarian

A man in his 80s presented to the hospital with a 36-hour history of fever, myalgia, bilateral shoulder and right knee pain. Joint fluid aspirates from his shoulders and right knee isolated Gram-negative diplococci. After failing to grow on standard and selective media, Neisseria meningitidis was identified by 16s PCR and subsequently typed as serogroup C. He had no clinical features of meningitis or meningococcaemia. Blood cultures were negative and an EDTA blood sample was negative for meningococcal ctrA gene. Urine PCR was negative for Neisseria gonorrhoeae He was treated successfully with two arthroscopic joint washouts of his right knee, aspirates of both shoulders, 40 days of intravenous ceftriaxone and intensive physiotherapy as both an inpatient and outpatient. In the literature, we have not found any previously documented cases of serogroup C meningococcus causing polyarticular primary septic arthritis in this age group or guidance on duration of antibiotic treatment. Literature on the impact of rehabilitation to baseline function was also found to be lacking. Although rare, primary meningococcal arthritis (PMA) should be considered as a differential diagnosis in cases of acute polyarticular septic arthritis. Polyarticular PMA in older adults may require prolonged rehabilitation before one might expect to return to premorbid function.

Secondary purulent infections of the elbow joint: a retrospective, single-center study

Background

Septic arthritis of the elbow joint is a rare condition. Limited data is available on infections of the elbow joint following trauma or prior surgery on this joint. The aim of this study was to describe the etiology, comorbidities, bacterial spectrum and therapy of secondary purulent elbow infections.

Methods

Patients treated in our hospital were selected through retrospective chart review between 2006 and 2015. We included all patients with an empyema of the elbow after a trauma or surgical intervention on this joint. 30 patients between 26 and 82 years (mean: 52.47) were included.

Results

Seven patients (23.3%) were female, 23 (76.7%) male. 22 patients (73.3%) had a history of trauma, eight (26.7%) had prior elective surgeries on their elbow. Between one and 25 surgeries (mean: 5.77) were necessary for treatment. In nine patients, debridement and synovectomy were sufficient, eight patients (26.7%) received resection of the elbow joint. One patient was treated with a chronic fistula. In 18 patients (60%), cultures of aspiration/intraoperative swabs were positive for Staphylococcus aureus, four of these were methicillin-resistant. Four patients (13.3%) had positive cultures for Staphylococcus epidermidis, in five patients (16.7%) no bacteria could be cultured.

Conclusions

Secondary infections of the elbow joint are a rare disease with potentially severe courses, requiring aggressive surgical treatment and possibly severely impacting elbow function. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common bacteria in secondary infections and should be addressed by empiric antibiotic treatment when no suspicion for other participating organisms is present.

Medical Versus Surgical Approach to Initial Treatment in Septic Arthritis: A Single Spanish Center's 8-Year Experience

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the functional results of 2 different procedure types, medical or surgical used in treating native joint septic arthritis.

Methods

In this cohort study, we reviewed the clinical registries of patients admitted to a single third-level hospital with the diagnosis of septic arthritis during the period of January 1, 2008, to January 31, 2016.

Results

A total of 63 cases of septic arthritis were identified in which the initial approach for 49 patients was medical (arthrocentesis), whereas the initial approach for 14 patients was surgical (arthroscopy or arthrotomy). Of the 49 patients who received initial medical treatment (IMT), 15 patients (30%) later required surgical treatment because of poor progress. The median age of the patients was 60 (SD, 18) years. The group who received IMT were older than those who received initial surgical treatment (median, 64 years [interquartile range {IQR}, 54–76 years], vs. 48 years [IQR, 30–60 years]). There was a larger percentage of male patients in the surgical group (78% vs. 42% [p = 0.018]). Thirty percent of the medical group had been receiving corticosteroid treatment (p = 0.018). Results of complete recovery of joint functionality showed no significant differences after 1 year (68% with MT vs. 67% with ST, p = 0.91). Both groups had similar symptom duration until diagnosis, duration of antibiotic therapy (median, 30 days [IQR, 28–49 days], vs. 29.5 days [IQR, 27–49] days), and mortality rate (3 in the medical group).

Conclusions

The results of the study show that initial surgical treatment in patients with native joint septic arthritis is not superior to IMT. However, half of the patients with shoulder and hip infections treated with IMT eventually required surgical intervention, suggesting that perhaps this should be the preferred initial approach in these cases.

Arthroscopic irrigation and debridement is associated with favourable short-term outcomes vs. open management: an ACS-NSQIP database analysis

PURPOSE

Septic arthritis of the knee is an orthopaedic emergency that is associated with marked morbidity and can potentially be life threatening. Surgical debridement can be performed either arthroscopically or via an arthrotomy. The aim of this study was to compare the 30-day complications and adverse outcomes between the two procedures.

METHODS

Patients with a diagnosis of septic arthritis of the knee between 2011 and 2015 were identified using the ACS-NSQIP database. The study population included 695 patients, who had knee septic arthritis and underwent either an arthroscopic irrigation or debridement (I&D) (n = 464) or open irrigation and debridement (n = 231). Preoperative data included demographics, independent functional status, and comorbidities. Outcomes of interest included wound complications, infectious complications, cardiovascular events, hospital readmissions, and reoperations, or any of the previous adverse events.

RESULTS

Both cohorts were similar in most baseline characteristics. Bleeding requiring transfusion was significantly lower in the arthroscopic (n = 13; 3.6%) compared to the open procedure (n = 31; 13.4%; p = 0.0001). Home discharge was significantly higher in the arthroscopic irrigation and debridement group (n = 310; 67.5%) compared to the open group (n = 126; 55%; p = 0.0013). The overall incidence of adverse events was lower in the arthroscopic group (n = 158; 34%) compared to the open group (n = 112; 49%; p = 0.0002). There was no difference in rates of infectious complications, thromboembolic events, hospital readmission, reoperation, or mortality between the groups. Open irrigation and debridement was associated with higher risk of bleeding requiring transfusion (OR = 3.79; 95% CI: 2.02-7.13; p = 0.0001), higher risk of incidence of adverse events (OR = 1.46; 95% CI: 1.02-2.08; p = 0.039), and lower home discharge (OR = 3.79; 95% CI: 2.02-7.13; p = 0.0001) within 30 days after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic irrigation and debridement demonstrated favourable short-term outcomes. Patients who underwent arthroscopic irrigation and debridement had lower rates of blood transfusions, lower rates of adverse events, and higher home discharge rates compared to open irrigation and debridement. This study is the largest analysis comparing arthroscopic vs. open irrigation and debridement in a national database sample. These findings conclude that arthroscopic debridement can be an alternative first-line option in managing septic arthritis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Current Approach to the Evaluation and Management of Septic Arthritis

Septic arthritis is an emergent condition caused by bacterial infection of a joint space. The most common etiology is hematogenous spread from bacteremia, but it can also occur from direct inoculation from bites, injection injuries, cellulitis, abscesses, or local trauma. Septic arthritis occurs most frequently in the lower extremities, with the hips and knees serving as the most common locations. The most sensitive findings include pain with motion of the joint, limited range of motion, tenderness of the joint, new joint swelling, and new effusion. Laboratory testing and imaging can support the diagnosis, but the criterion standard is diagnostic arthrocentesis. Treatment involves intravenous antibiotics and joint decompression.

Evaluation and Management of Septic Arthritis and its Mimics in the Emergency Department

Septic arthritis is a dangerous medical condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. However, the differential diagnosis can be broad with conditions that mimic this disease and require different evaluation and treatment. This narrative review presents the emergency medicine evaluation and management, as well as important medical conditions that may mimic this disease. Septic arthritis commonly presents with monoarticular joint pain with erythema, warmth, swelling, and pain on palpation and movement. Fever is present in many patients, though most are low grade. Blood testing and imaging may assist with the diagnosis, but the gold standard is joint aspiration. Management includes intravenous antibiotics and orthopedic surgery consult for operative management vs. serial aspirations. Clinicians should consider mimics, such as abscess, avascular necrosis, cellulitis, crystal-induced arthropathies, Lyme disease, malignancy, osteomyelitis, reactive arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and transient synovitis. While monoarticular arthritis can be due to septic arthritis, other medical and surgical conditions present similarly and require different management. It is essential for the emergency clinician to be aware how to diagnose and treat these mimics.

Peripheral Bacterial Septic Arthritis: Review of Diagnosis and Management

Septic arthritis refers to an infection in a joint due to a bacterial, mycobacterial, or fungal cause. Joint infections are a serious cause of morbidity and mortality and constitute a true musculoskeletal emergency. The estimated incidence of septic arthritis in the general population is between 2 and 6 cases per 100,000 people per year. The most common presentation is an acute monoarthritis. Identification of organisms in the synovial fluid is the criterion standard for diagnosis. Synovial fluid aspiration should be performed prior to initiating antibiotics. While no diagnostic cutoff exists for synovial fluid white blood cell count, increasing leukocytosis is associated with a higher likelihood of an infectious cause of arthritis, and patients commonly present with values greater than 50,000/μL. The cornerstones of treating septic bacterial arthritis are adequate drainage and antimicrobials. Joint drainage is always recommended in septic arthritis; however, no clear guidelines or strong evidence exist to guide the preferred method of drainage. Options for joint drainage include daily needle aspiration, arthroscopy, or open surgical drainage via arthrotomy.

Upper Extremity Compartment Syndrome in a Patient with Acute Gout Attack but without Trauma or Other Typical Causes

We report the case of a 30-year-old Polynesian male with a severe gout flare of multiple joints and simultaneous acute compartment syndrome (ACS) of his right forearm and hand without trauma or other typical causes. He had a long history of gout flares, but none were known to be associated with compartment syndrome. He also had concurrent infections in his right elbow joint and olecranon bursa. A few days prior to this episode of ACS, high pain and swelling occurred in his right upper extremity after a minimal workout with light weights. A similar episode occurred seven months prior and was attributed to a gout flare. Unlike past flares that resolved with colchicine and/or anti-inflammatory medications, his current upper extremity pain/swelling worsened and became severe. Hand and forearm fasciotomies were performed. Workup included general medicine, rheumatology and infectious disease consultations, myriad blood tests, and imaging studies including Doppler ultrasound and CT angiography. Additional clinical history suggested that he had previously unrecognized recurrent exertional compartment syndrome that led to the episode of ACS reported here. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) presents a difficult diagnosis when presented with multiple symptoms concurrently. This case provides an example of one such diagnosis.

Septic Arthritis and Prosthetic Joint Infections in Older Adults

Older adults are at increased risk for septic arthritis and prosthetic joint infections (PJI), owing at least in part to comorbid conditions and frailty. An increasing number of older adults undergo total joint arthroplasty to improve their quality of life. Infections in older adults differ from younger populations by the causative organisms, a great proportion of which are Staphylococcal infections. Targeting important modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors may prevent or reduce the burden of joint infections in older adults. This review summarizes the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, management, and prevention of septic arthritis and PJI in older adults.

Bone and joint infection

Bone and joint infections include septic arthritis, prosthetic joint infections, osteomyelitis, spinal infections (discitis, vertebral osteomyelitis and epidural abscess) and diabetic foot osteomyelitis. All of these may present through the acute medical take. This article discusses the pathogenesis of infection and highlights the importance of taking a careful history and fully examining the patient. It also emphasises the importance of early surgical intervention in many cases. Consideration of alternative diagnoses, appropriate imaging and high-quality microbiological sampling is important to allow appropriate and targeted antimicrobial therapy. This article makes some suggestions as to empiric antibiotic choice; however, therapy should be guided by local antimicrobial policies and infection specialists. Involvement of a multidisciplinary team is essential for optimal outcomes.

Pre- and Postintervention Factor Structure of Functional Independence Measure in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury

Objective

To evaluate the factor structure of Functional Independence Measure (FIM®) scale amongst people with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

This was a retrospective, register-based cohort study on 155 rehabilitants with SCI. FIM was assessed at the beginning and at the end of multidisciplinary inpatient rehabilitation. The internal consistency of the FIM was assessed with Cronbach's alpha and exploratory factor analysis was employed to approximate the construct structure of FIM.

Results

The internal consistency demonstrated high Cronbach's alpha of 0.95 to 0.96. For both pre- and postintervention assessments, the exploratory factor analysis resulted in 3-factor structures. Except for two items (“walking or using a wheelchair” and “expression”), the structures of the identified three factors remained the same from the beginning to the end of rehabilitation. The loadings of all items were sufficient, exceeding 0.3. Both pre- and postintervention chi-square tests showed significant p values < 0.0001. The “motor” domain was divided into two factors with this 2-factor structure enduring through the intervention period.

Conclusions

Amongst rehabilitants with SCI, FIM failed to demonstrate unidimensionality. Instead, it showed a 3-factor structure that fluctuated only little depending on the timing of measurement. Additionally, when measured separately, also motor score was 2-dimensional, not 1-dimensional. Using a total or subscale FIM, scores seem to be unjustified in the studied population.

[Infections of non-prosthetically treated joints]

BACKGROUND

Septic arthritis is a common orthopedic emergency. Immediate establishment of the diagnosis and administration of an adequate therapy is paramount in minimizing morbidity and mortality in this severe condition.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present review was to evaluate the existing evidence in order to give an overview on current best practice in diagnostics and treatment of septic arthritis in adults and children.

RESULTS

Joint infections result from either hematogenous spread or direct inoculation of bacteria into the joint, mostly iatrogenically. Predisposing risk factors include recent orthopedic joint surgery, i. v. drug abuse, pre-existing inflammatory and degenerative joint diseases and old age. Although pathogens differ in different populations and age groups Staphylococcus aureus is the single most frequently isolated causative organism, followed by streptococci. Although diagnosis is based on an integration of medical patient history, clinical and laboratory findings and imaging studies, joint fluid analysis remains the mainstay in establishing a valid diagnosis. The range of differential diagnostics is broad and includes non-infectious inflammatory joint diseases, such as gout or reactive arthritis. Once a diagnosis has been established treatment should be started immediately. Treatment is based on adequate antibiotic therapy and joint drainage until dryness. There is a paucity of studies on the optimal antibiotic regimen, route of application and duration of therapy. Moreover, no high-quality studies exist on the optimal mode of joint drainage. While superiority has yet to be shown, operative treatment in terms of arthroscopic lavage must be considered the standard of care in Germany. Finally, despite promising results in children, the role of corticosteroids as an adjunct to antibiotic treatment in adults has yet to be clarified.

Multifocal Septic Arthritis Secondary to Infective Endocarditis: A Rare Case Report

Introduction:

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a rare cause of septic arthritis. We report a patient who presented with multifocal septic arthritis as a result of IE, which is an extremely rare condition.

Case Report:

This 69-year-old gentleman presented to the emergency department (ED) with a 3-day history of acute right knee pain. Initial investigations demonstrated chondrocalcinosis on knee radiographs, acute renal failure with rhabdomyolysis and a CRP of 520. After treatment with intravenous fluid rehydration and analgesia, the knee aspiration grew a Group B Streptococcus, and the patient underwent arthroscopic washout. 48 h after admission the patient developed left wrist and right elbow pain. Further aspirations revealed Group B Streptococcus and the patient underwent further washouts. A multidisciplinary approach was used. Due to ongoing sepsis, an echocardiogram was performed identifying IE. The patient eventually died due to ongoing sepsis and duodenal ulceration.

Conclusion:

This case highlights the importance of considering a systemic cause such as IE for patients presenting with features of multifocal septic arthritis and ensuring all patients undergo a full medical examination as part of the clerking process. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need to adopt a multi-disciplinary approach when presented with complex patients so that the best medical care can be given to prevent morbidity and mortality.

[Septic arthritis and spondylodiscitis : Rare but feared diseases]

Septic arthritis and spondylodiscitis are relatively rare but severe diseases with increasing incidence. Septic arthritis is an emergency situation with high morbidity (40 %) and fatality rates (11 %). The infection occurs via a hematogenous route by direct inoculation or per continuitatem. Patients with pre-existing destructive joint diseases or under immunosuppressive treatment are particularly at risk. It is mandatory to sample synovial fluid for isolation of the relevant pathogen and quantification of leucocytes before starting antibiotic therapy. In order to preserve the joint, early evacuation of the infected synovial space is necessary. Spondylodiscitis is characterized by infection of the vertebra and neighboring discs mainly via a hematogenous route. Immunosuppressed and older patients are primarily at risk of infection. Back pain represents the main symptom but due to its unspecific character and the frequent absence of fever, diagnosis is often delayed. In Europe Staphylococcus aureus is the most prevalent pathogen, whereas tuberculosis is the most frequent causal agent worldwide. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) respresents the method of choice for the radiological diagnostics. In stable patients isolation of the pathogen should be achieved before starting antimicrobial therapy (e.g. blood cultures or tissue samples by computed tomography guided puncture or biopsy). The recommended duration of pathogen-specific antibiotic therapy for native spondylodiscitis is normally 6 weeks.

Septic Arthritis of Native Joints

Septic arthritis is a rheumatologic emergency that may lead to disability or death. Prompt evacuation of the joint, either by arthrocentesis at the bedside, open or arthroscopic drainage in the operating room, or imaging-guided drainage in the radiology suite, is mandatory. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has become a major cause of septic arthritis in the United States. MRSA joint infection seems to be associated with worse outcomes. Antibiotic courses of 3 to 4 weeks in duration are usually adequate for uncomplicated bacterial arthritis. Treatment duration should be extended to 6 weeks if there is imaging evidence of accompanying osteomyelitis.

Treatment of septic arthritis of the knee: a comparison between arthroscopy and arthrotomy

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of arthroscopy and arthrotomy in patients with septic monarthritis of the knee.

METHODS

Seventy consecutive patients who underwent surgery because of a bacterial monarthritis were evaluated. Patients were either treated with arthroscopy or with arthrotomy. Our primary outcome was the early recurrence of infection (>3 months after surgery), which made a second surgical procedure necessary. Furthermore, the influence of potential confounders on treatment outcome was analysed.

RESULTS

Of the 70 patients, 41 were treated arthroscopically and 29 with arthrotomy. Eight patients (11.4 %) had to undergo a second surgical procedure because of early re-infection. The rate was significantly higher in patients treated with arthrotomy (n = 6; 20.7 %) compared with those treated by arthroscopy (n = 2) (p = 0.041). Range of motion was significantly better in patients who underwent arthroscopy (p < 0.001). Male sex had negative influence on the treatment success (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with bacterial monarthritis of the knee who were treated with arthroscopy had a significantly lower re-infection rate and a better functional outcome than those treated with arthrotomy. As arthroscopy is the less invasive method, it should be considered the routine treatment, according to our data.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, Level III.

The changing face of septic arthritis complicating rheumatoid arthritis in the era of biotherapies. Retrospective single-center study over 35years

OBJECTIVES

To see whether the frequency and features of septic arthritis (SA) complicating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have changed over the last 35years.

METHODS

This retrospective single-center study included all patients hospitalized at the rheumatology department for SA bacteriologically documented by synovial fluid and/or blood culture samples. The periods 1979-2002 (before biotherapies) and 2003-2013 (the era of biotherapies) were compared.

RESULTS

Between 1979 and 2013, 64/514 (12.5%) SA presented with a RA - 21/157 (13.4%) in the 2003-2013 period and 43/357 (12.0%) in the 1979-2002 period. Over the past decade, median age of RA SA patients increased (61 vs. 68 years; P<0.02) and predominant gender became males (52% vs. 40%). The features of the RA remained unchanged: history (18 vs. 16years), rheumatoid factor (95% vs. 87%), and corticosteroids (91% vs. 81%). Over the last decade 24% (vs. 0; P<0.003) of the patients received a biologic DMARD: etanercept (n=2), adalimumab (n=1), rituximab (n=1), tocilizumab (n=1). Proportion of polyarticular infection had decreased strongly (9.5% vs. 37%; P<0.02). Proportion of Staphyloccus aureus infections remained stable, but there was a higher incidence of MRSA infections (31 vs. 6%; P<0.05). Blood cultures less often tested positive (29% vs. 47%; NS). Case fatality rate had fallen slightly in RA SA (5% vs. 9%; NS), but not in non-RA SA cases (7% vs. 6%; NS).

CONCLUSION

This study brings reassuring findings - in the era of biotherapies, the rate of septic arthritis amongst patients with RA has not increased, and the most severe septic polyarticular forms are on the decline.

Pyogenic arthritis of native joints due to Bacteroides fragilis: Case report and review of the literature

Pyogenic arthritis of native joints due to Bacteroides fragilis seems to be an infrequent disease. We analyzed the cases diagnosed in a tertiary hospital during a 22-year period and reviewed the literature to summarize the experience with this infectious entity.In our institution, of 308 patients with pyogenic arthritis of native joints, B fragilis was the causative organism in 2 (0.6%) cases. A MEDLINE search (1981-2015) identified 19 additional cases.Of the 21 patients available for review (13 men and 8 women, with a mean age, of 54.4 ± 17 years), 19 (90%) presented a systemic predisposing factor for infection; the most common associated illness was rheumatoid arthritis (8 patients). Bacteremia was documented in 65% (13/20) of cases. In 5 patients (24%), 1 or more concomitant infectious process was found. Metronidazole was the most frequently used antibiotic. Surgical drainage was performed in 11 cases (52%). The overall mortality rate was 5%.Pyogenic arthritis of native joints due to B fragilis is an infrequent disease that mainly affects elderly patients with underlying medical illnesses and in whom bacteremia and the presence of a concomitant infectious process are frequent conditions.

Staphylococcus aureus-Associated Musculoskeletal Infections

Musculoskeletal infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus are among the most difficult-to-treat infections. S. aureus osteomyelitis is associated with a tremendous disease burden through potential for long-term relapses and functional deficits. Although considerable advances have been achieved in diagnosis and treatment of osteomyelitis, the management remains challenging and impact on quality of life is still enormous. S. aureus acute arthritis is relatively seldom in general population, but the incidence is considerably higher in patients with predisposing conditions, particularly those with rheumatoid arthritis. Rapidly destructive course with high mortality and disability rates makes urgent diagnosis and treatment of acute arthritis essential. S. aureus pyomyositis is a common disease in tropical countries, but it is very seldom in temperate regions. Nevertheless, the cases have been increasingly reported also in non-tropical countries, and the physicians should be able to timely recognize this uncommon condition and initiate appropriate treatment. The optimal management of S. aureus-associated musculoskeletal infections requires a strong interdisciplinary collaboration between all involved specialists.

IL-1 Receptor Antagonist Treatment Aggravates Staphylococcal Septic Arthritis and Sepsis in Mice

Background

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) is the primary therapy against autoinflammatory syndromes with robust efficacy in reducing systemic inflammation and associated organ injury. However, patients receiving IL-1Ra might be at increased risk of acquiring serious infections.

Aims

To study whether IL-1Ra treatment deteriorates Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) septic arthritis and sepsis in mice.

Method

NMRI mice were treated with anakinra (IL-1Ra) daily for 7 days before intravenous inoculation with S. aureus strain Newman in both arthritogenic and lethal doses. The clinical course of septic arthritis, histopathological and radiological changes of the joints, as well as the mortality were compared between IL-1Ra treated and control groups.

Results

IL-1Ra treated mice developed more frequent and severe clinical septic arthritis. Also, the frequency of polyarthritis was significantly higher in the mice receiving IL-1Ra therapy. In line with the data from clinical arthritis, both histological and radiological signs of septic arthritis were more pronounced in IL-1Ra treated group compared to controls. Importantly, the mortality of IL-1Ra treated mice was significantly higher than PBS treated controls.

Conclusion

IL-1Ra treatment significantly aggravated S. aureus induced septic arthritis and increased the mortality in these mice.

Polyarticular Septic Arthritis in an Immunocompetent Adult: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Septic arthritis is a clinical emergency requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment to avoid significant morbidity and mortality. Polyarticular septic arthritis (PASA) accounts for 15% of all infectious arthritides and rarely occurs in immunocompetent adults. Staphylococcus aureus is the most commonly isolated organism, with infection primarily affecting knees, shoulders, elbows, and hips. The morbidity associated with PASA is very high, and mortality in treated cases of PASA may be as high as 50% of cases. We report a case of PASA with associated epidural abscess in a healthy adult male, who presented with complaints of arthralgia and limited range of motion of his left shoulder, wrist, and ankle. He also presented with low back pain and motor weakness associated with an epidural abscess spanning L2-S1, with multilevel vertebral osteomyelitis. Surgical washout of the affected joints as well as decompressive laminectomies was performed, and he received a standard course of intravenous antibiotics. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from joint aspirations and from blood cultures. The patient had a full neurological and functional recovery postoperatively with no sequelae. To the best of our knowledge this is the only case report of Staphylococcus aureus PASA with concomitant epidural abscess in an immunocompetent adult.

Predictive value of the usual clinical signs and laboratory tests in the diagnosis of septic arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the sensitivity and specificity of clinical and laboratory signs for the diagnosis of septic arthritis (SA). Patients and methods This prospective study included all adult patients with suspected SA seen in the emergency department or rheumatology department at the University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand, France, over a period of 18 months.

RESULTS

In total, 105 patients with suspected SA were included, 38 (36%) presenting with SA (29 [28%] with bacteriologically documented SA). In the univariate analysis, chills (p=0.015), gradual onset (p=0.04), local redness (p=0.01), as well as an entry site for infection (p=0.01) were most often identified in SA. A history of crystal-induced arthritis (p=0.004) was more frequent in non-SA cases. An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)>50 mm (p=0.005), a C-reactive protein (CRP) level >100 mg/L (p=0.019), and radiological signs suggestive of SA (p=0.001) were more frequent in the SA cases. Synovial fluid appearance: purulent (p50,000/μL (p < 0.001), differentiated between SA and non-SA. In multivariate analysis, only chills (odds ration [OR]=4.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3-17.1), a history of crystal-induced arthritis (OR=0.09, 95% CI 0.01-0.9), purulent appearance of the joint fluid (OR=8.4, 95% CI 2.4-28.5), synovial WBC count >50,000/mm3 (OR=6.8, 95% CI 1.3-36), and radiological findings (OR=7.1, 95% CI 13-37.9) remained significant.

CONCLUSION

No clinical sign or laboratory test (excluding bacteriological test), taken alone, is conclusive for the differentiation between SA and non-SA, but the association of several signs, notably chills, history of crystal-induced arthritis, radiological findings, and the appearance and cellularity of joint fluid may be suggestive.

Predictors of treatment failure and mortality in native septic arthritis

The aims of this study are to analyse the characteristics of septic arthritis stratified by age and to identify the predictors of treatment failure and mortality in septic arthritis. A retrospective single-centre study was conducted in patients with native septic arthritis between 1994 and 2012. The primary outcome was treatment failure. Secondary outcomes included mortality, complications, endocarditis, bacteraemia, hospital readmission and the duration of the hospital stay. Logistic regression analyses with a propensity score were performed to identify the predictors of response and mortality. Additional analyses were performed according to age and the initial treatment (surgery or conservative). A total of 186 patients were studied. The median (interquartile range) age was 64 (46, 74) years, and the percentage of male patients was 68.9%. A logistic regression analysis showed that Staphylococcus aureus infection [OR 2.39 (1.20-4.77), p = 0.013], endocarditis [OR 4.74 (1.16-19.24), p = 0.029] and the involvement of joints difficult to access with needle drainage [OR 2.33 (1.06-5.11), p = 0.034] predict treatment failure and that age [OR 1.27 (1.07 = 1.50), p = 0.005], the leucocyte count at baseline [OR 1.01 (1.00-1.02), p = 0.023], bacteraemia [OR 27.66 (1.39-551.20), p = 0.030], diabetes mellitus [OR 15.33 (1.36-172.67), p = 0.027] and chronic renal failure [OR 81.27 (3.32-1990.20), p = 0.007] predict mortality. No significant differences in treatment failure by age were found. In septic arthritis, the predictors of mortality and the predictors of treatment failure differ. The predictors of treatment failure concern local factors and systemic complications, whereas conditions related to the host's immune competence, such as age and comorbidities that hamper the host's response, predict mortality.

Determinants of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus native bone and joint infection treatment failure: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Although methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) native bone and joint infection (BJI) constitutes the more frequent clinical entity of BJI, prognostic studies mostly focused on methicillin-resistant S. aureus prosthetic joint infection. We aimed to assess the determinants of native MSSA BJI outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study (2001–2011) of patients admitted in a reference hospital centre for native MSSA BJI. Treatment failure determinants were assessed using Kaplan-Meier curves and binary logistic regression.

Results

Sixty-six patients (42 males [63.6%]; median age 61.2 years; interquartile range [IQR] 45.9–71.9) presented an acute (n = 38; 57.6%) or chronic (n = 28; 42.4%) native MSSA arthritis (n = 15; 22.7%), osteomyelitis (n = 19; 28.8%) or spondylodiscitis (n = 32; 48.5%), considered as “difficult-to-treat” in 61 cases (92.4%). All received a prolonged (27.1 weeks; IQR, 16.9–36.1) combined antimicrobial therapy, after surgical management in 37 cases (56.1%). Sixteen treatment failures (24.2%) were observed during a median follow-up period of 63.3 weeks (IQR, 44.7–103.1), including 13 persisting infections, 1 relapse after treatment disruption, and 2 super-infections. Independent determinants of treatment failure were the existence of a sinus tract (odds ratio [OR], 5.300; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.166–24.103) and a prolonged delay to infectious disease specialist referral (OR, 1.134; 95% CI 1.013–1.271).

Conclusions

The important treatment failure rate pinpointed the difficulty of cure encountered in complicated native MSSA BJI. An early infectious disease specialist referral is essential, especially in debilitated patients or in presence of sinus tract.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2334-14-443) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Septic arthritis: patients with or without isolated infectious agents have similar characteristics

PURPOSE

Septic arthritis can be disabling and life-threatening, requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment. The infectious agent is not always identified in these patients. We revaluate septic arthritis cases discharged from our department, describing the affected population, causative microorganisms and antibiotic therapy used, and characterised differences between patients with and without isolated pathogenic agents.

METHODS

Sixty-eight septic arthritis patients were included in this study. Diagnosis was based on clinical findings, and/or the presence of joint purulent material, and/or bacterial pathogen isolation from joint fluid/synovial membrane/blood cultures and response to antibiotics. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 20.

RESULTS

Patients had a mean age of 61.1 ± 18.8 years, without sex predominance. 26.5 % had an infection ≤ 15 days before septic arthritis diagnosis. Besides previous infection, 57.4 % had ≥ 1 risk factors for septic arthritis, most commonly pharmacological immunosuppression (20.6 %), diabetes mellitus type 2 (19.1 %) and rheumatoid arthritis (17.6 %). The knee was the most often affected (54.3 %). Only 39.7 % presented fever from clinical onset until hospital admission (mean 13.4 ± 18.9 days). Leucocytosis was present in 45.6 % of patients, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in 75 % and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) in 97.1 %. 5.9 % had articular damage attributable to septic arthritis. An infectious agent was isolated in 41.2 % of patients, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most frequent. 38.7 % of synovial fluid and 23.5 % of synovial membrane cultures were positive. Patients with an identified infectious agent have no significant differences other than more days of hospitalisation (p = 0.003) and in-hospital antibiotic treatment (p = 0.017).

CONCLUSION

Synovial fluid and synovial membrane cultures more often identified pathogens compared to blood or urine cultures. Patients with and without an identified infectious agent have similar demographic, clinical, laboratory and radiographic characteristics.

Escherichia coli - Marauding masquerading microbe

BACKGROUND

Escherichia coli is a rare cause of monoarticular septic arthritis, but is an even rarer cause of polyarticular septic arthritis.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We report an unusual case of polyarticular septic arthritis with an atypical presentation caused by E. coli, the source of which was a left pyelonephritis. Our patient developed E coli sepsis resulting in polyarticular septic arthritis (PASA) in the absence of typical risk factors except for pre-existing osteoarthritis. The joints involved were the hip, ankle, sternoclavicular and L5/S1 joints. Of interest, ankle pain was not reported or evident until correlated with nuclear medicine scans. Furthermore, sternoclavicular joint involvement presented as left shoulder pain, resulting in an initial misdiagnosis of left shoulder septic arthritis. The patient was treated with surgical washout and antibiotic therapy. He was subsequently discharged from rehabilitation having returned to his baseline level of mobility. Future consideration will be given to total hip arthroplasty.

LITERATURE REVIEW

There are no reported cases of E. coli PASA involving more than three joints in the absence of any recognized risk factors for septic arthritis.

PURPOSE AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Asymptomatic involvement of joints can occur in polyarticular septic arthritis and should be considered in all cases of monoarticular septic arthritis (MASA). We believe that clinical suspicion is the key to early and comprehensive diagnosis of polyarticular septic arthritis particularly when presenting in an atypical fashion with an atypical pathogen. Strong consideration should be given to performing nuclear imaging in cases of monoarticular septic arthritis where polyarticular involvement cannot be definitively ruled out.

Polyarticular septic arthritis in an immunocompetent patient

Septic arthritis is an uncommon condition with an incidence of 2-3/100,000. It is clinically notable, however, as it is a rapidly destructive joint disease with significant associated morbidity and mortality. Polyarticular septic arthritis has an estimated incidence of 15% of all cases of infectious arthritis. We report a case of polyarticular septic arthritis with involvement of bilateral shoulders and wrist to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment as well as the high mortality rates associated with this condition. Bilateral septic shoulder arthritis poses a challenge to treat, and its significance should not be underestimated as even with early surgical intervention and aggressive antibiotic and fluid resuscitation death is a sad but perhaps not uncommon outcome. It is therefore imperative that the diagnosis of polyarticular septic arthritis is kept prominent in the physician's mind when confronted with a patient with symptomatic polyarthralgia.