Which is not a typical sign of septic arthritis?

Which is not a typical sign of septic arthritis?

• A. Hearing loss
• B. Fever
• C. Localized joint pain
• D. Limited range of motion

Answer: (A)

Septic arthritis is an infection inside a joint, and it typically presents with sudden, severe joint pain accompanied by swelling, warmth, and limited range of motion, often with fever and malaise. Hearing loss is not part of this picture; that symptom would suggest an ear or neurologic issue rather than a joint infection. The fever with acute joint symptoms reflects the inflammatory response within the joint capsule and synovium, and without prompt treatment this can rapidly damage cartilage. Evaluation focuses on confirming infection by obtaining synovial fluid through arthrocentesis for analysis and culture—usually a high white blood cell count with neutrophil predominance, low glucose, and high protein. Blood cultures may be positive or negative. Management requires prompt antibiotics and drainage of the joint to prevent joint destruction and potential sepsis.

Septic arthritis is an infection inside a joint, and it typically presents with sudden, severe joint pain accompanied by swelling, warmth, and limited range of motion, often with fever and malaise. Hearing loss is not part of this picture; that symptom would suggest an ear or neurologic issue rather than a joint infection. The fever with acute joint symptoms reflects the inflammatory response within the joint capsule and synovium, and without prompt treatment this can rapidly damage cartilage. Evaluation focuses on confirming infection by obtaining synovial fluid through arthrocentesis for analysis and culture—usually a high white blood cell count with neutrophil predominance, low glucose, and high protein. Blood cultures may be positive or negative. Management requires prompt antibiotics and drainage of the joint to prevent joint destruction and potential sepsis.