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Updated: Feb 13, 2026

In vivo Macrophage Imaging Using MR Targeted Contrast Agent for Longitudinal Evaluation of Septic Arthritis
Published on: October 20, 2013
Early diagnosis of septic arthritis in immunocompromised patients
Bennet A Butler1, David W Fitz1, Cort D Lawton1
1Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, 676 N. Saint Clair, Suite 1350, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Objectives:
Septic arthritis results in rapid joint destruction if not properly diagnosed and treated. A work up for septic arthritis includes a peripheral white blood cell count, inflammatory markers, and a joint aspiration. In the general population, the interpretation of these labs has been well-defined by prior studies. To this point, no study has determined how immunosuppressive states affect this work up.
Methods:
Patients with immunosuppressive conditions who received a joint aspiration for a painful joint were retrospectively identified. Laboratory results from their work up were gathered and analyzed.
Results:
216 patients were included in the study, 21 of whom were diagnosed with septic arthritis. The average aspiration WBC count was 74,190 with 88% PMNs. 81% had a positive gram stain.
Discussion:
Laboratory values for immunosuppressed patients with septic arthritis were similar to those associated with septic arthritis in historical general population controls.
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