Fungal arthritis

Alternative names:

mycotic arthritis

Definition:

An inflammation of a joint caused by a fungal infection.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Fungal or mycotic arthritis may be caused by several organisms: coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, cryptococcosis, candidiasis, and sporotrichosis. These organisms may affect bone or joint tissue. One or more joints may be affected. The infection usually occurs as a result of an infection in another organ, frequently the lungs.