Pathogens in Pediatric Septic Arthritis: A Multi-Center Study in Turkiye (PEDSART Study)

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Microbiology
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Septic arthritis (SA) is a critical bacterial infection requiring prompt treatment.
• Culture-negative cases are common, highlighting the need for improved diagnostic methods.
• Local epidemiological data is crucial for understanding SA in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the etiology, clinical features, and treatment of pediatric SA in Turkiye.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in diagnosing SA.
• To identify common pathogens and their prevalence in pediatric SA cases.

Main Methods:

• A multi-center, prospective study involving 75 children hospitalized with SA across 23 hospitals in Turkiye.
• Collection and analysis of clinical, demographic, laboratory, and radiological data.
• Real-time PCR performed on synovial fluid samples for pathogen detection.

Main Results:

• The knee was the most frequently affected joint (77.4%).
• Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen (29.3%), followed by Streptococcus pyogenes (5.3%) and Kingella kingae (4%).
• Real-time PCR increased the detection rate of causative agents, particularly for Streptococcus pyogenes and Kingella kingae.

Conclusions:

• Staphylococcus aureus is the primary cause of pediatric septic arthritis.
• Real-time PCR enhances diagnostic yield for SA, especially for less common pathogens.
• Advanced diagnostic techniques are vital for timely and effective management of pediatric SA.