Hematogenous septic arthritis of the adult hip

A retrospective review of 10 patients admitted to 4 regional hospitals between 1987 and 1997 in whom acute septic hip arthritis was diagnosed was performed to compare presentation, laboratory and radiographic findings, treatment, and outcome. Patients presented with fever, hip or groin pain, and an inability to bear weight. Most patients manifested a leukocytosis, and all patients had an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Hematogenous septic hip arthritis is rare. The consequences of a missed diagnosis are serious and include death. Clinical examination combined with appropriate laboratory and radiographic studies leads to prompt diagnosis and treatment.