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septic arthritis
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septic arthritis

pathology
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Article History

septic arthritis, acute inflammation of one or more joints caused by infection. In septic arthritis the joints are swollen, hot, sore, and pus-filled; the condition may occur following infection by such bacteria as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Pneumococcus, Gonococcus, or Meningococcus. Pus produced in response to infection erodes articular cartilages; since articular cartilages have almost no regenerative capacity, permanent damage may result if treatment is delayed. Treatment includes antimicrobial drug therapy and drainage and rest of the joint.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Robert Curley.