SP0109 HOT: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF INFECTION RELATED ARTHRITIDES

Abstract

Background: Management of infectious arthritis has evolved because of empiric knowledge, clinical studies, and emerging pathogens. For patients with bacterial arthritis, organism specific, effective anti-microbial therapy is essential, but assessment of co-morbidities, adequate joint drainage, and supportive care are also required. For patients with infectious arthritis an acute intervention is usually necessary, since delay in diagnosis often leads to unsatisfactory outcome. In some situations, the distinction between infection and a post-infectious inflammatory process may be challenging. Objective(s): The goal of this lecture is to review management of septic arthritis in native joints. In addition, I will discuss Lyme arthritis and chronic chikungunya arthritis as examples of the broadening spectrum of infectious arthritis. Method(s): This lecture will rely on my clinical experience and a Pubmed literature search. Result(s): In this HOT lecture, I will provide practical, up to date information about the diagnosis and management of septic (bacterial) arthritis of native joints. I will discuss longstanding treatment paradigms, as well as advances in management and areas of uncertainty. I will then consider two emerging infections, Lyme arthritis and chronic chikungunya arthritis, that illustrate the changing spectrum of infectious arthritis. Conclusion(s): It is the intention of this lecture to assist rheumatologists in management of patients across the spectrum of infectious arthritis. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are often challenging, but critical to satisfactory patient outcome.