Infectious arthritis
Overview
Infectious arthritis: This is a general term used to describe forms of arthritis that are caused by infectious agents, such as bacteria or viruses. A rare condition where arthritis occurs as a result of joint infection by a bacteria, virus or fungus. Symptoms vary according to the infection type.
Symptoms
The list of signs and symptoms mentioned in various sources for Infectious arthritis includes the 9 symptoms listed below: * Arthritis * Joint pain * Fever * Chills * General weakness * Headache * Joint inflammation * Joint swelling * Joint pain
Causes
* Gonorrhea * Parvovirus * Reactive arthritis * Dengue Fever * Ross River Fever * Other infectious causes of joint pain
Treatment
* Even though unlikely, if septic arthritis (such as with Neisseria gonorrhoeae) is a possibility, antibiotic treatment should be started immediately * Appropriate treatment of malignancy * NSAIDs for JRA and spondyloarthropathies as an initial therapy; disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as sulfasalazine and methotrexate, and biologics (e.g., TNF blockers) are added depending on clinical response * Specific treatments of other mixed connective tissue diseases depending on their severity * Corrective and/or supportive medical/surgical interventions * Supportive therapy such as PT and OT to increase range of motion and strength; insoles to correct leg length discrepancy * Psychosocial support especially with chronic diseases