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Sternoclavicular joint infection: a case report

H R Moyer1, B Ghazi, D V Feliciano

  • 1Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States. hmoyer@emory.edu

The Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgeon
|December 17, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Sternoclavicular joint infection (SJI) is a rare form of septic arthritis. Early diagnosis via joint aspiration and tailored antibiotics are key, with surgery reserved for complex cases like abscesses.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Rheumatology

Background:

  • Sternoclavicular joint infection (SJI) is an uncommon presentation of septic arthritis, representing about 1% of all cases.
  • Patients often experience prolonged localized pain, potentially accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and chills.

Observation:

  • Diagnosis relies on joint aspiration for fluid analysis and microbial identification.
  • Clinical presentation typically involves weeks of localized sternoclavicular pain, with or without systemic signs.

Findings:

  • Broad-spectrum antibiotics are initiated, with treatment tailored to identified pathogens.
  • Conservative management with intravenous antibiotics and imaging is often successful.
  • Surgical intervention is indicated for complications such as abscess formation, osteomyelitis, or mediastinitis.

Implications:

  • Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes in SJI.
  • Understanding the indications for surgical versus conservative treatment is vital for effective patient management.
  • SJI requires a multidisciplinary approach involving infectious disease specialists, orthopedic surgeons, and rheumatologists.

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