Infectious Arthritis

Infectious arthritis is a term used to refer to forms of arthritis that are caused by infections (such as with bacteria or a virus). There are several types of infectious arthritis; the most common is septic arthritis, which is caused by certain types of bacteria. Generally, infectious arthritis is not a long-term condition; it can often be cured. Treatment of infectious arthritis differs depending on the cause involved. Treatment options for the condition may include medications, joint drainage, surgery, and splinting the joint.

 

What Is Infectious Arthritis?

Infectious arthritis is a general term used to describe forms of arthritis that are caused by germs, such as bacteria or viruses.
 

Who Gets Infectious Arthritis?

Anyone can get infectious arthritis, regardless of their age or gender. However, there are groups of people who are at a higher risk, such as alcoholics and IV drug addicts. Others at a higher risk for developing infectious arthritis include people with:
 
Other people at a higher risk for infectious arthritis include those who:
 
  • Have had certain procedures, such as a knee replacement, hip replacement, or knee arthroscopy
     
  • Work in jobs where exposure to plants, animals, marine life, and soil is common.
     

Types of Infectious Arthritis

There are several types of infectious arthritis. The most common type is septic arthritis, or arthritis caused by certain types of bacteria. Other types of infectious arthritis include:
 
(Click Infectious Arthritis Causes for more information, including specific bacterial, viral, and fungal causes of infectious arthritis.)
 
(Infectious Arthritis Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD