Septic arthritis of knee joint after rooster attack: a case report

Septic arthritis is a serious orthopedic emergency that can lead to irreversible chondrolysis and joint destruction if not treated promptly. Although Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen, atypical bacteria, especially injuries inflicted by animals, can cause severe septic arthritis. Recognizing the risk of infection from even seemingly minor injuries during initial inspection is crucial to prevent fulminant septic arthritis. Diagnostic tools such as blood cultures and synovial fluid aspiration are key to identifying the causative bacteria and guiding antibiotic therapy.

A Swiss, 26 years old, woman got pecked by a rooster and suffered an injury to her right knee. The patient's symptoms, blood analysis, and joint aspiration confirmed the diagnosis of septic arthritis of the knee. Empiric antibiotic treatment with amoxicillin and clavulanic acid was started. Arthroscopic debridement and dilution was initiated. The arthroscopic view showed damage to the right medial femur condyle, which was overlooked by the medical staff during the patient's initial examination. The patient recovered quickly and showed no more restrictions 6 weeks after trauma.

This case highlights the importance of recognizing the risk of infection, even from seemingly small injuries such as a rooster peck, to prevent fulminant septic arthritis. Further, this case demonstrates the importance of not underestimating a penetration wound by inspection only. Thorough clinical examination and wound exploration or saline load test can help to assess the depth of penetrating wounds. Nevertheless, rapid surgical and antibiotic treatment ensured a positive outcome for the patient in the case of this orthopedic emergency.