Simultaneous occurrence of knee septic arthritis and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): A case report

Mandana Khodashahi1, Rozita Khodashahi2, Zeinab Saremi3

  • 1Rheumatic Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

The Egyptian Rheumatologist
|September 19, 2022
PubMed

Insights

This case highlights a rare instance of Staphylococcus aureus septic arthritis in a COVID-19 patient. Early recognition of joint complications in COVID-19 is crucial for prompt and effective treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Rheumatology
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic presents a significant global health challenge.
  • While many COVID-19 cases are mild or asymptomatic, unusual manifestations and long-term complications require identification.
  • Septic arthritis is a serious joint infection that can occur as a co-morbidity or unusual presentation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a case of septic arthritis caused by Staphylococcus aureus in a patient with COVID-19.
  • To emphasize the importance of considering septic arthritis in COVID-19 patients presenting with joint symptoms.
  • To illustrate the diagnostic and management approach for this co-infection.

Main Methods:

  • A 45-year-old male presented with progressive left knee pain and limited movement.
  • COVID-19 was diagnosed via real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
  • Staphylococcus aureus septic arthritis was diagnosed through synovial fluid analysis and treated with vancomycin.

Main Results:

  • The patient was diagnosed with COVID-19 despite initially mild symptoms.
  • Synovial fluid culture confirmed Staphylococcus aureus septic arthritis, responsive to vancomycin.
  • Lung CT revealed ground-glass opacities characteristic of COVID-19, leading to antiviral treatment.
  • The patient showed significant improvement in both joint condition and respiratory symptoms, with full recovery within a month.

Conclusions:

  • Septic arthritis should be considered in COVID-19 patients presenting with joint pain, swelling, or redness.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment of co-existing infections are vital for managing COVID-19 patients.
  • This case underscores the diverse clinical spectrum of COVID-19 and its potential complications.
Abstract

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