Fungal arthritis
Information, Symptoms, Treatments and Resources
Fungal or mycotic arthritis is a very rare condition and may be caused by any of the invasive fungi. These organisms may affect bone or joint tissue. One or more joints may be affected, with the large weight-bearing joints, especially the knee, most commonly affected.
Conditions that may lead to fungal arthritis include the following:
The infection usually occurs as a result of an infection in another organ, frequently the lungs, and tends to progress very slowly. Immunocompromised patients are more susceptible to some causes of fungal arthritis.
- Culture of joint fluid that grows fungus
- Joint x-ray showing joint changes
- Synovial biopsy showing fungus
- Positive antibody test (serology) for fungal disease
- Skin tests
The objective of treatment is to cure the infection with antifungal medication. Amphotericin B or medications in the azole family (fluconazole, ketoconazole, or itraconazole) are frequently used antifungal medications.
Chronic or advanced bone or joint infection may require surgical removal (debridement) of infected tissue.
The outlook depends on the underlying cause of the infection and the patient's overall health. A weakened immune system, cancer, and certain medications can affect the outcome.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if any symptoms of fungal arthritis develop.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. � 1997- 2008 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
