Nongonococcal Bacterial Arthritis

When a joint becomes suddenly inflamed with intense pain and fever, prompt care is advisable, since nongonococcal bacterial arthritis is a joint infection caused by bacteria other than gonococcus, which can compromise its function.

Characteristic signs: intense joint pain, swelling, redness, warmth in the area, difficulty moving the joint, and frequently fever.

How the infection reaches it: the bacteria can reach the joint through the bloodstream, through a nearby wound, or after certain procedures.

Which specialist treats it? The rheumatologist and the orthopedist, with support from the internist, are the ones who study this type of arthritis. Because it is a condition that can progress rapidly, in the presence of a very swollen and painful joint it is prudent to seek care without delay.