LAUSR

Introduction Most cases of arthritis are caused by degenerative conditions, such as osteoarthritis, and/or autoimmune/inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis. Occasionally, however, orthopaedists encounter arthritis caused by a pathogenic organism, usually bacteria. Because of the various focal and systemic routes of inoculation and the vast array of organisms that may be involved, septic arthritis can be challenging to diagnose. The importance of early septic arthritis diagnosis and treatment prior to destruction of the affected joint is well established. The organisms and/or the cytotoxins they may produce can irreversibly damage cartilage and subchondral bone within only a few days. An estimated 25% to 50%of patients with septic arthritis end up with irreversible loss of joint function. But, considering the number of possible pathogens, and the often nonspecific symptomology, sometimes early and definitive action is difficult, as the cases in this “Case Connections” illustrate.