Rapidly progressive joint infection: A multidisciplinary review of septic arthritis

Abstract

Septic arthritis is a fast-growing joint disease that causes severe inflammation and possibly joint destruction due to microbial infection of the synovial space.  Even with improvements in antimicrobial treatments and diagnostic instruments, septic arthritis still carries a high morbidity and mortality rate, particularly in high-risk groups.  This study offers a thorough summary of the causes, symptoms, risk factors, clinical characteristics, methods of diagnosis, and treatment of septic arthritis.  It also discusses historical turning points in our knowledge of the illness and emphasizes how crucial early detection and vigorous treatment are to avoiding long-term consequences. The article also discusses the problems that arise from inadequate or delayed treatment and points out the importance of physical therapy in joint recovery. Traditional ethnobotanical treatments, in addition to current therapy, have demonstrated promise in reducing joint infection and inflammation. The epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of septic arthritis are summarized in this review, which also highlights promising phytotherapeutic options as supplements to holistic care approaches.