Septic (Infectious) Arthritis

How does a doctor know my child has septic arthritis?

Prompt diagnosis of septic arthritis is necessary to prevent permanent damage to the joint.

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for septic arthritis may include

• removal of joint fluid - to examine for white blood cells and bacteria
• blood tests - to detect bacteria
• phlegm, spinal fluid, and urine tests - to detect bacteria and find the source of infection
• x-ray - a diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film
• bone scan - a nuclear imaging method to evaluate any degenerative and/or arthritic changes in the joints; to detect bone diseases and tumors; to determine the cause of bone pain or inflammation
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. radionuclide scans - nuclear scans of various organs to determine blood flow to the organs.