Introduction

Septic arthritisis inflammation of a joint caused by a bacterial infection. It's also known as infectious or bacterial arthritis.

Any joint can be affected by septic arthritis, but it's most common in the knees and hips. More than one joint can be affected at the same time.

Most people make a full recoveryafter treatment. Without treatment, septic arthritismay leadto permanent joint damage and can become life threatening.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017