I have never heard of
fungal arthritis before:
Fungal arthritis is infection of a joint by a fungus.
Causes
Fungal arthritis, also called mycotic arthritis, is a very rare condition. It can be caused by any of the invasive types of fungi. These organisms may affect bone or joint tissue. One or more joints may be affected, most often the large, weight-bearing joints, especially the knees.
Conditions that can cause fungal arthritis include:
Blastomycosis
Candidiasis
Coccidioidomycosis
Cryptococcosis
Histoplasmosis
Sporotrichosis
The infection sometimes occurs as a result of an infection in another organ such as the lungs, and tends to get worse very slowly. The large joints are most often affected. People with weakened immune systems who travel or live in endemic areas are more susceptible to most causes of fungal arthritis.
Symptoms
Arthritis
Fever
Joint pain
Joint stiffness
Joint swelling
Swelling of the ankles, feet, and legs
Exams and Tests
Culture of joint fluid that grows fungus
Joint x-ray showing joint changes
Positive antibody test (serology) for fungal disease
Synovial biopsy showing fungus
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to cure the infection using antifungal drugs. The most commonly used antifungal drugs are amphotericin B or medications in the azole family (fluconazole, ketoconazole, or itraconazole).
Chronic or advanced bone or joint infection may require surgery (debridement) to remove the infected tissue.
Outlook (Prognosis)
What happens depends on the underlying cause of the infection and the patient's overall health. A weakened immune system, cancer, and certain medications can affect the outcome.
Possible Complications
Joint damage can occur if the infection is not treated promptly.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have any symptoms of fungal arthritis.
Prevention
Thorough treatment of fungal infections elsewhere in the body may help prevent fungal arthritis.
