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Infective arthritis secondary to bladder outflow obstruction
Postgraduate Medical Journal
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Septic arthritis in elderly men can stem from lower urinary tract infections, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Investigating the urinary system may reveal treatable conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia contributing to these infections.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Urology
Background:
- Septic arthritis is a serious joint infection.
- Lower urinary tract infections (LUTIs) are common in elderly men.
- Elderly men with LUTIs are at risk for systemic infections.
Observation:
- Two elderly male patients presented with septic arthritis.
- Staphylococcus aureus was identified in both joint fluid and urine samples.
- Both patients had bladder outflow obstruction due to benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Findings:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia can predispose elderly men to LUTIs.
- LUTIs can serve as a focus for septic arthritis in this demographic.
- Staphylococcus aureus can spread from the urinary tract to joints.
Implications:
- Urinary tract infections should be considered in elderly men with septic arthritis.
- Further urological investigation may identify underlying, correctable causes.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia can prevent complications like septic arthritis.