In septic arthritis, which organism is classically most associated with infection?

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Multiple Choice

In septic arthritis, which organism is classically most associated with infection?

Septic arthritis is most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. It’s highly virulent in joint tissue and often reaches the joint through the bloodstream or by direct introduction, leading to an acute, purulent, single-joint arthritis with rapid pain, warmth, and swelling. This pattern makes Staphylococcus aureus the classic culprit in adults. The other organisms listed can cause joint infection in certain contexts, but they are less typical overall: Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause septic arthritis, especially in specific settings, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis tends to produce a chronic, indolent, granulomatous arthritis.

Septic arthritis is most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. It’s highly virulent in joint tissue and often reaches the joint through the bloodstream or by direct introduction, leading to an acute, purulent, single-joint arthritis with rapid pain, warmth, and swelling. This pattern makes Staphylococcus aureus the classic culprit in adults. The other organisms listed can cause joint infection in certain contexts, but they are less typical overall: Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause septic arthritis, especially in specific settings, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis tends to produce a chronic, indolent, granulomatous arthritis.

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