Introduction

• Uncommon cause of arthritis - not reported in UK.
• Pathogenesis: hematogenous spread following inhalation or spread from contiguous soft tissue or bone infection.
• Cause: a variety of fungi - type dependent upon geographical location.
• Signs: swollen, painful joint(s).
• Diagnosis:
• Treatment: antifungal drugs.
• Prognosis: guarded - variable response to treatment.

Pathogenesis

Etiology

• Various fungi according to geographic location, egCoccidioides immitis Coccidioides immitis ,Cryptococcus neoformans Cryptococcus neoformans ,Blastomyces dermatiis Blastomyces dermatitidis ,Sporothrix schenkii,Aspergillus fumigatus Aspergillus fumigatus.

Pathophysiology

• Erosive arthritis Arthritis: erosive.
• Inhalation or contiguous soft tissue or bone infection → hematogenous fungal spread → inflammatory changes in synovial fluid and synovia.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Outcomes