Fungal arthritis is also known as mycotic arthritis. Fungal arthritis is a very rare disorder. Fungal arthritis occurs due to an invasive kind of fungi that may affect tissues of joint and bone. Either single or multiple joints may get affected with this condition. This condition usually affects the large, weight-bearing joints, particularly the knees.
In some cases the fungal infection may also spread through an infection caused to some other organ of the body like lungs, which worsens gradually. The most commonly affected joints are the large joints of the body. Individuals who travel a lot or live in endemic areas and those who especially have a weak immune system are more likely to get affected with fungal arthritis.
Causes and Risk Factors of Fungal or Mycotic Arthritis
- Coccidioidomycosis.
- Histoplasmosis.
- Blastomycosis.
- Sporotrichosis.
- Candidiasis.
- Cryptococcosis.
Signs and Symptoms of Fungal or Mycotic Arthritis
- Joint pain.
- Swelling of the joint.
- Arthritis.
- Swelling of the feet, legs, and ankles.
- Fever.
- Stiffness in the joint could also be experienced.
Treatment of Fungal or Mycotic Arthritis
Treatment of fungal arthritis usually concentrates on curing the infection. Antifungal drugs are helpful in treatment of fungal arthritis. The antifungal drugs may include amphotericin B, itraconazole, ketoconazole and fluconazole.
Investigations of Fungal or Mycotic Arthritis
- Positive antibody test for fungal disease.
- Synovial biopsy showing fungus.
- Culture of joint fluid that grows fungus.
- Joint x-ray showing joint changes.
