Septic Arthritis

When a joint becomes inflamed, hurts, and turns red quickly, along with fever, it could be bacterial arthritis, an infection inside the joint caused by bacteria.

Common symptoms: intense pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in a joint, difficulty moving it and, frequently, fever and general malaise.

Why does it require prompt attention? Because it is an infection that directly affects the joint, early evaluation is important to protect joint function.

Which specialist treats it? The rheumatologist and the orthopedist evaluate the joint, the infectious disease specialist studies the infection and, in children, the pediatrician and the pediatric infectious disease specialist provide follow-up. If a joint becomes suddenly and painfully inflamed with fever, the most prudent thing is to seek medical attention immediately.