Septic Bursitis

What is it?

Inflammation (hot, red and swelling) of the bursae.

Bursae are tiny sacs where they help to reduce friction because they contain cells called synovial cells which produce lubrication liquid to reduce friction in our joints.
Bursae can be found anywhere in the body where friction occurs i.e. on joints where two bones rub together or where muscles and/or tendons develop friction with joints.
One has over 160 bursae locations in their body and bursitis can occur here.

Common areas on the body include:

Ankles
Elbow
Hip
Knees
Shoulders
Thigh

Diagnosis tests

Clinical examination
Bursal fluid aspiration:
- Check for gout
- Bacetial infection
Skin swab / wound culture
Gram stain for bacteria tests
Fungal tests
- Detects fungal infections such as ringworm (tinea) using potassium hydroxide
Skin scraping examination
- Check for parasites
- Scabies
- fungal conditions
Skin biopsy
Blood tests if infection is severe:
- Sepsis tests
- Necrotising fasciitis
PCR or molecular tests
Ultrasound
MRI
X-ray

Cause

Injury
Repetitive movement occupations
I.e. builders, electricians, gardeners (using their knees, shoulders)
Lifting
Doing the same sporty activities using the same muscles and joints i.e. Athletes, ball activities, (using their shoulders, knees, hips and ankles)
Darts players (using their shoulders and elbows)
Exostosis (Osteoma)
Infection and/or broken skin particular if one has a weak immune system:

Source: OnHealth

Source: The Journal of Rheumatology

Symptoms

High temperature greater than 38°C (100°F) or over and/or chills and sweats longer than 72 hours?
Affected area is hot, red and swollen?
Rash on affected area?
Cracks in the skin and can be pussy?

Complications /Information to beware of/General tips:

This condition may show similar symptoms to:

Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice

Detailed Information

Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Septic Bursitis in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).

Medical News Today
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Medscape (Professional level)
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Healthline
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EveryDay Health
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Pharmaceutical Journal (Professional level)
The Pharmaceutical Journal covers analysis, features, opinion, learning and careers articles, providing insight and knowledge about drugs, pharmacy practice, medicines use and healthcare policy in the context of the pharmacy profession and pharmaceutical science.
NHS
Find information and advice on health conditions, symptoms, healthy living, medicines and how to get help (British National Health Service).
WebMD
Better Information. Better Health.
Cleveland Clinic
Pushing the Standards of care.
Mayo Clinic
No.1 Hospital in the Nation (America)
Drugs.com
Know more. Be sure.
National Organisation of Rare Diseases
NORD is dedicated to supporting education, elevating care, advancing research, and driving policy for rare diseases.
Verywell Health
Know more. Fell better.
Nathnac
Travel health guidance for health professionals advising travellers and for travellers going overseas from the UK.
DR Axe
Health and fitness news. Recipes, Natural Remedies
Better health - NHS
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