Definition

An inflammation of a joint caused by a fungal infection.

Alternative Names
Mycotic arthritis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Fungal or mycotic arthritis is a very rare condition and may be caused by any of the invasive fungi, including coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, cryptococcosis, candidiasis, and sporotrichosis. These organisms may affect bone or joint tissue. One or more joints may be affected.

The large weight-bearing joints, especially the knee, are most commonly affected. The infection usually occurs as a result of an infection in another organ, frequently the lungs, and tends to progress very slowly.

Symptoms

joint swelling
joint stiffness
joint pain
arthritis
ankle, feet, and leg swelling

Signs and tests

A culture of joint fluid that grows fungus
A joint X-ray showing joint changes
A synovial biopsy showing fungus
Positive antibody test (serology) for fungal disease
Skin tests

Treatment

The objective of treatment is to cure the infection with anti-fungal medication. Amphotericin B or medications in the azole family (fluconazole, ketoconazole, or itraconazole) are frequently used anti-fungal medications.

Chronic or advanced bone or joint infection may require surgical removal (debridement) of infected tissue.

Expectations (prognosis)
The outcome depends in part upon the infecting organism.

Complications
Joint damage can occur if the infection is not treated.

Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of fungal arthritis develop.

Prevention
Thorough treatment of fungal infections elsewhere may help prevent fungal arthritis.