Septic arthritis in children

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Septic arthritis in children is an orthopaedic emergency that has serious consequences if not diagnosed promptly and treated effectively. The presenting symptoms include pain, non-weight bearing and fever. Inflammatory markers are raised and ultra-sonography demonstrates a joint effusion. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of septic arthritis in children. DISCUSSION: Definitive treatment involves surgical drainage and lavage of the joint, followed by high-dose, empirical, intravenous (IV) antibiotics. Treatment is tailored to the causative organism, if this is identified. For an uncomplicated case of septic arthritis, 2 days of IV antibiotics followe..