[Concomitant septic and gouty olecranon bursitis]

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Gout is a crystal-induced arthritis caused by monosodium urate (MSU) deposition.
• Septic bursitis is an infection of the olecranon bursa, a common site for inflammation.
• Coexistence of these conditions is uncommon, presenting diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

• A patient presented with symptoms suggestive of both acute gout and septic olecranon bursitis.
• Clinical examination revealed signs of inflammation and swelling over the olecranon.
• Aspiration of the bursa was performed for diagnostic purposes.

Findings:

• Synovial fluid analysis confirmed the presence of MSU crystals, indicative of gout.
• Cultures of the synovial fluid revealed bacterial growth, confirming septic bursitis.
• These findings established the diagnosis of coexistent acute gout and septic olecranon bursitis.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering crystal arthropathy in the differential diagnosis of septic olecranon bursitis.
• Infection may act as a trigger for acute gout flares in individuals with asymptomatic MSU crystal deposition.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management, including antibiotics and anti-inflammatory treatment, are crucial for favorable outcomes.