Septic arthritis in children

Background Septic arthritis in children is an orthopaedic emergency that has serious consequences if not diagnosed promptly and treated effectively. The presenting symptoms include pain, non-weight bearing and fever. Inflammatory markers are raised and ultrasonography demonstrates a joint effusion. Objective The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of septic arthritis in children. Discussion Definitive treatment involves surgical drainage and lavage of the joint, followed by high-dose, empirical, intravenous (IV) antibiotics. Treatment is tailored to the causative organism, if this is identified. For an uncomplicated case of septic arthritis, 2 days of IV antibiotics followed by a 3-week course of oral antibiotics is usually sufficient. Long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor for sequelae of septic arthritis, including cartilage damage, growth disturbance and avascular necrosis of the femoral head.