Septic Arthritis of the Knee

Septic arthritis is an urgent infection of the knee joint that can rapidly damage cartilage if not treated promptly.

This page covers causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, medications, surgical approaches, and recovery guidance related to septic arthritis of the knee.

Quick Facts

Focus	Details
Condition Type	Infectious
Common Symptoms	Severe pain and swelling, Warmth and redness, Fever or chills, Inability to bear weight
Typical Diagnosis	Urgent clinical exam, Joint aspiration and cultures, Blood tests and imaging
Common Treatments	Emergency evaluation and hospitalization, Intravenous antibiotics

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes

Bacterial infection of the joint or bone

Risk Factors

Recent surgery or injection
Skin infection or wounds
Immunosuppression

Symptoms and Signs

Severe pain and swelling
Warmth and redness
Fever or chills
Inability to bear weight

Diagnosis

Urgent clinical exam
Joint aspiration and cultures
Blood tests and imaging

Treatment Overview

Focus	Details
Non-Surgical Care	Emergency evaluation and hospitalization
Medications	Intravenous antibiotics
Injections	Not typically used
Surgical Options	Urgent joint drainage and washout

Self-Care and Recovery

Follow antibiotic plan and rest

Possible Complications

Rapid joint damage
Systemic infection if untreated

FAQs

What is Septic Arthritis of the Knee?

Septic arthritis is an urgent infection of the knee joint that can rapidly damage cartilage if not treated promptly.

What symptoms are common?

Severe pain and swelling, Warmth and redness, Fever or chills, Inability to bear weight.

How is it diagnosed?

Urgent clinical exam, Joint aspiration and cultures, Blood tests and imaging.

What treatments are used?

Emergency evaluation and hospitalization, Intravenous antibiotics, Urgent joint drainage and washout.

When should I seek care?

Seek care for severe pain, swelling, fever, or inability to bear weight, or if symptoms persist despite self-care.