Culture-positive left shoulder septic arthritis with suspected contralateral involvement secondary to Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia.
Adeolu Toluwani Adenipekun, Timothy Burton
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
An elderly diabetic patient presented with bilateral shoulder pain and elevated inflammatory markers, but without fever, erythema, swelling, or warmth, which are typical signs of septic arthritis. Despite the atypical presentation, the diagnosis was made, and the patient underwent bilateral shoulder washout and antibiotic treatment. This approach was crucial in managing the intra-articular infection effectively.
What made this case unusual
The patient exhibited septic arthritis without the classic clinical signs, which can lead to diagnostic delays and joint damage.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for septic arthritis even when classic signs are absent, particularly in at-risk populations.
Why it matters
Recognizing atypical presentations of septic arthritis is essential to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure timely intervention, which can significantly improve patient outcomes.