[Infection of the shoulder joint. Etiology, diagnosis and therapy]

Acute infections of the shoulder joint have to be considered as an emergency and must be treated immediately. The significance of an infected glenohumeral joint is demonstrated by the functional results, which are poorer than other in joint infections. Irreversible cartilage damage is already observable after one week, and impairment of motion resulting in invalidity may result. Early functional physiotherapy is necessary to avoid shoulder ankylosis. The etiology, characteristic clinical findings, radiologic examinations and different forms of therapy are summarized. By early diagnosis, with immediate and adequate therapy, it is possible to avoid devastating results.