Gonococcal arthritis

Alternate names:

disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI)

Definition:

A gonococcal infection, usually of a single joint (90 to 95%) that occurs following infection with gonorrhea.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

This infection occurs in people who have been infected with gonorrhea. It affects women more frequently than men (4:1) and its highest incidence is among sexually active adolescent girls. There is also increased risk during menstruation and pregnancy.

Two forms of arthritis exist, one with skin rashes and multiple joint involvement but no demonstrable gonococci in the joint fluid; and a second, less common form where disseminated gonococcemia leads to infection of a single joint (monoarticular) and joint fluid cultures are positive.

Single joint arthritis follows generalized spread (dissemination) of the gonococcal infection. Dissemination is associated with symptoms of fever, chills multiple joint aches (arthralgia) and rashes (1mm-2cm red macules). This episode may end as a single joint becomes infected. The most commonly involved joints are the knee, wrist, and ankle.

Updated Date: 02/09/00

Updated By:J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial