Septic Arthritis - Clinical Scenario

A 65-year-old lady presents with a 5-day history of a single swollen painful joint of her left hand. She enjoys gardening. She is clinically well.

Objectives:
1. Obtain a relevant history of septic arthritis.
2. Examination of a joint.
3. Order relevant investigations.
4. Create a relevant treatment plan.
5. Identify complications of septic arthritis.

Primary Contributor:
Dr Waruguru Wanjau, Plastic Surgery Trainee, South Africa.

Reviewer:
Dr Suzanne Thomson, Plastic Surgeon, Scotland.