FUNGAL ARTHRITIS

Overview & Facts

Fungal arthritis is inflammation of a joint by a fungus microorganism that has invaded the body and is growing in the normally sterile joint. Fungal infection of a joint is a serious condition that can lead to permanent damage to the joint with loss of function. Fungal arthritis is also referred to as mycotic arthritis.

Fungal arthritis can be caused by the spread of fungus through the bloodstream or by directly inserting fungus into a joint. Fungal arthritis in people with normal immune systems is rare.


Types & Symptoms

The fungus can affect bone or joint tissue. One or more joints can be affected, most often the large, weight-bearing joints, such as the knees.

Symptoms may include any of the following:

  • Fever
  • Joint pain
  • Joint stiffness
  • Joint swelling
  • Swelling of the ankles, feet, and legs

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Fungal arthritis is considered when a patient whose immune system is compromised develops inflammation of a joint. Blood tests can include testing the blood for the white blood count, inflammation markers (sedimentation rate, or ESR, and C-reactive protein, or CRP), and cultures of the blood. Plain X-ray images, CAT scanning, and/or MRI scanning can be used to determine the character and extent of joint damage. Ultimately, joint fluid is aspirated from the joint with a needle and syringe and this fluid is analyzed in the laboratory to culture the precise fungal organism and establish the diagnosis.


RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS

Fungal arthritis is a medical emergency. It is treated by infectious-disease specialists together with orthopedic surgeons. The goal of treatment is to cure the infection using antifungal drugs. Commonly used antifungal drugs are amphotericin B or drugs in the azole family (fluconazole, ketoconazole, or itraconazole).

Chronic or advanced bone or joint infection may require surgery (debridement) to remove the infected tissue.

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