What is a joint effusion?

A joint effusion is the presence of increased intra-articular fluid. It may affect any joint. Commonly it involves the knee. read more

Aseptic joint effusion means that the cause is not related to a bacterial infection. In this instance, a viral infection, physical injury, or arthritis may be to blame. Septic joint effusion means just the opposite and is related directly to an infection (including sepsis). read more

Joint infection usually occurs after a previous infection in the body. The infection travels to the joint via the bloodstream from another part of the body, such as a person's skin, nose, throat, ears, or an existing wound. Within hours to days, pain, inflammation, swollen joints, and fever develop. read more

The approach to diagnosis depends on the joint involved. While aspiration of the joint is considered the gold standard of treatment, this can be difficult for joints such as the hip. Ultrasound may be used both to verify the existence of an effusion and to guide aspiration. read more