Which factors increase the risk of septic arthritis?

Septic arthritis is an acute inflammation of the joints caused by an infection, most commonly by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. Several factors can increase an individual's susceptibility to developing this condition:12

• Age: Being at the extremes of age, specifically infants and the elderly, increases risk.1
• Medical History: Preexisting arthritic conditions, chronic renal failure, and immunosuppression are significant risk factors.1
• Procedures and Trauma: Recent surgery or the presence of a prosthetic joint can introduce pathogens into the joint space.1
• Infections: The presence of a skin infection or a bloodstream infection, which allows bacteria to travel through the circulatory system to the joint, increases the likelihood of infection.1
• Penetrating Trauma: Direct introduction of microorganisms into the joint via injury is also a known cause.1

Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential, as the accumulation of pus can erode articular cartilage, which has very limited regenerative capacity, potentially leading to permanent joint damage.2