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Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2025; 29(02): 293-301
DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1802352
DOI: 10.1055/s-0045-1802352
Review Article
Septic Arthritis: Current Concepts
Abstract
Septic arthritis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with survivors often facing long-term functional impairments. Prompt diagnosis is crucial to decrease complications such as cartilage loss, osteomyelitis, and reduced mobility. Imaging plays a central role in the diagnosis, as well as offering guidance for diagnostic aspiration. Because septic arthritis may involve any joint in the body, both native and prosthetic, different imaging modalities may be more applicable in various scenarios. We describe the hallmark imaging findings of septic arthritis in radiography, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear medicine scintigraphy, as well as the associated complications.
Publication History
Article published online:
31 March 2025
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