Septic Arthritis of the Hip: A medical emergency requiring immediate diagnosis and treatment.
When bacteria, fungi, or mycobacteria spread through the bloodstream, the hip is at high risk of contracting Septic Arthritis, as it lacks the defense mechanisms found in other body parts, allowing germs to enter the joint directly. Generally, in cases of Acute Septic Arthritis, the causes are bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus.
This infection progresses rapidly, causing the cartilage and bone to degenerate quickly and leading to severe, irreversible structural damage. Therefore, treatment must be administered urgently.
Symptoms:
People who contract this disease present with fever, joint swelling, and sharp pain that intensifies with movement. In some cases, pseudoparalysis, redness in the joint area, and localized heat may occur. Usually, the patient has a fever of 37.7 °C (100 °F) or higher.
Management:
The first step is a review of the clinical history and a physical examination. Subsequently, imaging tests, blood tests, and hip fluid samples are taken. Although treatment depends on the cause of the infection, a drainage surgery is usually performed to clear the infection, along with antibiotics to eliminate the germ.
