Tuberculous arthritis Health Article

Definition

Tuberculous arthritis is an infection of the joints due to tuberculosis (TB).

See also: Spondylitis

Alternative Names

Granulomatous arthritis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Approximately small number of people who have TB will develop this form of arthritis. The joints most often involved are the:

• Ankles
• Hips
• Knees
• Spine
• Wrists

Most cases involve just one joint.

TB involving the spine is often referred to as Pott's disease. The fictional Hunchback of Notre Dame had a humpback that is thought to have been caused by tuberculosis.

Symptoms

• Decreased movement in the joints
• Excessive sweating, especially at night
• Joint swelling with warm, tender joints
• Low-grade fever
• Muscle atrophy
• Muscle spasms
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness below the infection (if the spine is involved)
• Weight loss or loss of appetite

Note: The condition usually starts slowly and may involve only one joint.

Signs and tests

A physical examination shows swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the joint.

Tests:

• Aspiration of fluid in the joint
• Biopsy of the joint to detect the bacteria that causes TB
• Chest x-ray
• CT scan of the spine
• Joint x-rays
• Tuberculin skin test (also called PPD)