Diseases

bone & joint infections

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Overview

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.

Symptoms

  • extreme discomfort and difficulty using the affected joint.
  • the joint could be swollen
  • red and warm, and you might have a fever.

Causes

  • septic arthritis can be caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infections. bacterial infection with staphylococcus aureus (staph) is the most common cause. staph commonly lives on even healthy skin.

Risk factors

  • existing joint problems.
  • having an artificial joint.
  • taking medications for rheumatoid arthritis

Diagnosis

  • blood tests.
  • imaging tests.
  • joint fluid analysis.

Medicines used

Frequently asked questions

What is bone & joint infections?

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.

What are the symptoms of bone & joint infections?

extreme discomfort and difficulty using the affected joint., the joint could be swollen, red and warm, and you might have a fever.

What causes bone & joint infections?

septic arthritis can be caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infections. bacterial infection with staphylococcus aureus (staph) is the most common cause. staph commonly lives on even healthy skin.

Which medicines are used for bone & joint infections?

ceftazidime

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