Canine septic arthritis

Abstract

Septic arthritis is an important cause of lameness in a broad age range of patients. Diagnosis is based on a combination of the clinical presentation, arthrocentesis sampling and exclusion of alternative causes of lameness. In-house cytology can likely provide a presumptive diagnosis and enable treatment initiation while awaiting a culture result. Although there is poor evidence for treatment recommendations, the prognosis is likely good with prompt treatment. However, clinicians should make owners aware that there is a risk of recurrence and there may be a limited recovery in patients with pre-existing osteoarthritis.