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Updated: Dec 24, 2025
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Knee Arthrocentesis in Adults
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Septic Polyarthritis by Staphylococcus aureus of "Unknown Origin"
Soraia Azevedo1, Joana Sousa-Neves2, Daniela Santos-Faria1
1From the Rheumatology Department, Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Minho, Ponte de Lima.
Summary
This case highlights a rare instance of septic polyarthritis in a patient without typical risk factors. Early diagnosis of this joint infection was delayed due to its unusual presentation.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Septic arthritis typically affects a single joint (monoarticular) in over 90% of cases.
- Joint infection pathways include hematogenous spread, contiguous infection, surgical contamination, direct inoculation, or trauma.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male presented with septic polyarthritis, an unusual manifestation.
- The patient lacked common risk factors, comorbidities, or signs of immunosuppression.
- Absence of fever and good general condition contributed to diagnostic delay.
Findings:
- The case presented as atypical septic polyarthritis with multiple joint involvement.
- Delayed diagnosis and treatment occurred due to the patient's unusual presentation and lack of typical symptoms.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering atypical presentations of septic arthritis.
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for joint infections, even in the absence of classic risk factors or symptoms.
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